August is National Pet Immunization Awareness month, which makes it an excellent time to revisit your pet’s vaccination needs. Pet immunizations have been proven time again to be highly effective in safeguarding the health of cats and dogs, helping them live longer, happier lives free of disease and harmful illness. That’s why during the month of August and beyond, it’s important to explore the different immunizations available and the benefits of being proactive about your pet’s health, and we’re here to facilitate the process.
Vaccination Timelines
For puppies and kittens alike, the first vaccinations they will receive should be administered around the age of eight weeks old. Following their first vaccination, they will be required to receive booster shots to continue building their immunity up until they reach about 20 weeks old. For older dogs and cats that have been rescued or given to you and do not have a clear and concise vaccination history, the same puppy and kitten vaccination schedule is recommended. Once a pet has received their initial series of vaccinations, it is recommended to have your pet vaccinated every one to three years to maintain their immunity and protection.
Common Canine Vaccinations
The core canine immunizations include the following:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Bordetella
- Lyme
Common Feline Vaccinations
The core feline immunizations include the following:
- Rabies
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis
- Calicivirus
- Panleukopenia
- FeLV Feline Leukemia virus
- Bordetella
Keep Your Pet Safe and Healthy
If you’re looking for the most effective way to keep your pet safe, look no further than pet immunizations. Pet immunizations serve to build up your pet’s immunity against harmful pathogens, not only allowing them to fight off illness, but also helping to reduce the risk of spreading disease to other animals and humans that may interact with your dog or cat. Additionally, while vaccines do have an initial cost, the cost of treating these potentially life-threatening diseases is significantly higher, and in some cases, treatment continues well into your pet’s life, making vaccinations the more cost-effective and safe route to maintain your pet’s health and well-being.
Get proactive about your pets well-being and health by contacting your trusted veterinarian to discuss your pet’s next vaccinations today.
