Most people are aware that their pets should be vaccinated, but you may not know the reason why. Vaccines are incredibly vital and must be part of your pet’s preventative care as they will help prevent serious diseases and provide pet owners with peace of mind.
Pet vaccines allow the body to build an effective immune response against viruses and bacteria, so if your pet were to be exposed, their immune system would be able to defend itself, and they would not fall ill as they would have the necessary protection. Some vaccinations will provide your pet with complete protection against the disease, while others will help decrease the risk of severe infection and all pet vaccines are effective in keeping your furry pal both happy and healthy.
Not all vaccinations are created equal, and not all pets require all vaccinations, so you need to speak to your vet so that they can assess your pet and determine which vaccinations are necessary. Most vaccinations can be divided into two groups known as core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are required, and rabies and distemper vaccines are included in this category. Rabies is a severe disease that is almost always fatal when contracted, and humans can contract it from infected animals, which is why this vaccine is mandatory. The distemper vaccine comprises four different vaccinations to combine canine distemper, canine hepatitis, canine influenza, and parvovirus, all of which are very serious diseases.
Non-core vaccines will be given based on risk factors and may include Bordetella, which is associated with the canine kennel cough. This condition can lead to upper respiratory issues, including a persistent and contagious cough, so this vaccination is generally recommended for social dogs so that they are protected when spending time around other pets. Leptospirosis is also a non-core vaccine and is a bacterial disease found in wild animal urine. Severe liver and kidney problems can occur in pets and people due to this infection, so this vaccine is also recommended for most dogs.
Canine influenza is another non-core vaccine, although this is a potentially serious and very contagious respiratory bug. It would be wise to consider this vaccine, particularly for more social dogs. Lyme disease is also a severe bacterial disease carried by ticks, and this will cause fever, kidney problems, and joint pain, so the vaccine is recommended for all dogs.
Now that you know a little more about the importance of pet vaccines, you can contact a vet to schedule an appointment, and River Grove Animal Hospital is ready to help. We will make sure your dog is healthy and happy, and our care will allow them to thrive. If you are looking for a reputable animal hospital, contact us today, and we will gladly provide you with more information!
