What vaccines should be given to my pet?
Specific vaccines for an individual animal depends on many different factors. For example exposure to a disease the pet has, common diseases that live in the area, stress factors that might be present, and more. Many different veterinarians recommend different types of vaccines. The best thing to do is establish a trusting relationship with a veterinary facility and go with vaccines they recommend.
When should I start vaccines for my new pet?
If you have adopted a new dog or cat, most should already be vaccinated. Make sure you ask for paperwork that verifies they have gotten the needed vaccines. If you just got a new puppy or kitten, we recommend you start the canine and feline distemper vaccines between 7 and 9 weeks of age and boosters until 16 weeks of age. During those addition visits we can go over other suggested vaccines when they reach the right age.
Canine Core Vaccines
It is always highly recommended that dogs get the basic distemper combination (protects against distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) and rabies vaccine.
Canine Non-core Vaccines
Bordetella is a non-core vaccine but is recommended if your dog walks outside frequently around other dogs, visits dog parks, goes to thee groomer or a boarding facility. Bordetella protects against kennel cough.
We also offer the Leptospiral vaccine. If you and your pet are active and hike or travel often, lepto may be recommended. Leptospires can be transmitted either through direct contact or indirectly through contact with contaminated water, soil or food.
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If you have any questions about non-core or core vaccines and whether your dog is suitable for the vaccine, please give us a call.
Feline Core Vaccines
It is always high recommended that cats get the basic feline distemper shot (fvrcp) (protects against feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) and rabies vaccine.
Feline Non-core Vaccines
Feline Lukemia is a non-core vaccine we offer. If your cat spends time outside it is usually recommended as it is passed on from other cats. We recommend Felv/Fiv tests to rule out the disease before the vaccine is given.
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If you have any questions about non-core or core vaccines and whether your cat is suitable for the vaccine, please give us a call.