Many of the diseases that can affect dogs and cats are preventable through proper vaccinations. Let our knowledgeable team guide you through setting up a vaccination schedule for your dog or cat to keep him or her protected.
Core vs. non-core
Vaccinations are classified into two categories, with core vaccinations being those absolutely necessary to prevent truly virulent diseases from attacking your pet. Non-core vaccinations are optional; however, we may recommend them if you and your dog engage in outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, frequenting dog parks, and for cats, spending time outdoors.
Core vaccinations
For dogs, the core vaccinations include:
- Rabies
- Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Hepatitis
For cats, the core vaccinations include:
- Rabies
- Feline Panleukopenia (distemper)
- Feline Herpes Virus and Calicivirus (respiratory infections)
Non-core vaccinations
For dogs, the non-core vaccinations include:
- Lyme Disease
- Infectious Bronchitis
- Bacterial Blood Infections
For cats, the non-core vaccinations include:
- Feline Chlamydophila
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis (an intestinal disease)
- Feline Leukemia
- Ringworm
How vaccinations work
The immunizations contain a substance that stimulates the pet’s immune system to build antibodies against targeted infections. As their immunity builds, the dog or cat should be able to resist the diseases if and when they come into contact with them. Once they’ve achieved full immunity, it’s then a matter of reinforcement with annual vaccinations.
What if my pet never goes outside?
Some pet owners question whether their pet needs to be vaccinated if he or she never goes outside. The answer is yes! Some of these life-threatening infections are airborne and can even come in through an open window, or the pet could escape outside and be exposed. The bottom line is this: pets need to be vaccinated to be protected.
Puppies and kittens
Pet vaccination needs to start at an early age. For the first 6 to 8 weeks of age, puppies and kittens are protected by their mothers’ immunity, but after weaning, they are then very vulnerable to being struck by one of these dreaded diseases. This is the time our vet urges you to begin the schedule of core vaccinations for your pet. We administer their vaccines more frequently than older pets and right up to 16-20 weeks old.
The Scott County Veterinary Clinic team is here to keep your pets protected! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.