Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL, that offers various services to help care for your pet. One of the services we offer is vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential because they protect your pet from severe illnesses and diseases. We want to ensure that your pet is healthy and happy, which is why we offer high-quality care at an affordable price.
Importance of Pet Vaccinations
Vaccinations are not only important for humans, but for pets as well. Vaccinations help protect pets from deadly and contagious diseases. You're not only helping your pet stay well, but you will be also helping yourself and others avoid disease. Vaccinations help to boost a pet’s immune system and help them fight off diseases.
What Vaccines Does My Pet Need?
Cats and dogs should start getting vaccinated when they're between 6 and 8 weeks old. The initial series of shots are usually given in 3 doses, spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. After that, most pets need booster shots once a year. They are also broken down into core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all pets.
Conversely, non-core vaccines are recommended for pets at risk of exposure to a disease. Pets of all ages can benefit from regular vaccinations. Puppies and kittens need them because their immune systems aren't fully developed. Adult and senior pets also need annual boosters to help keep them healthy.
Core vaccines for dogs include:
- Rabies - Rabies is a deadly virus that can infect all mammals, including people. It's transmitted when an infected animal bites another animal or person.
- Canine parvovirus - This a highly contagious virus that spreads among dogs. It can be fatal in young puppies, especially those under six months of age.
- Distemper - This contagious virus is spread through bodily fluids and feces. It infects both dogs and humans but is more common in puppies than adults.
Core vaccines for cats include:
- Rabies - This deadly virus can infect cats as well.
- Feline herpesvirus - This virus can cause respiratory infections and conjunctivitis.
- Feline panleukopenia - This is a fatal disease that most commonly affects kittens.
Are Vaccines Safe for My Pet?
Overwhelming evidence suggests vaccines are a safe part of preventative health for your pet. For most pets, there are no adverse side effects or reactions to vaccines. You can expect some tenderness where the vaccine was administered. Otherwise, your pet should be completely normal.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Vero Beach for an Appointment
Southside Veterinary Hospital wants to ensure your pet stays healthy. Make an appointment today to get your pet scheduled for its vaccinations. We look forward to seeing you here.