Importance of Timely Pet Vaccines

Many may wonder how often your pet should be vaccinated. Cats and dogs have different schedules when it comes to this topic, because they are on a different side of the spectrum. Dogs for example, recieve their first shots beginning at the age of 6 to 8 weeks. Cats are usually about 11 to 12 weeks before they receive their first series of shots.

Vaccines that are included for dogs are Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Para influenza, and Corona virus. These are given ounces and other times are given as directed by your veterinarian. Be sure not to over vaccinate your dog because where these shots can help your dog they can also harm your dog if these shots are given too many times. Over vaccinating can cause the immune system to shut down. The immune system contains memory cells and after the shots are given it will help produce enough antibodies to fight against disease. After your shots are given to your dog, an annual check up is all they will need until they become older, and then your veterinarian will notify you when your dog needs other series of shots.

Cats need check ups and vaccinations as well. Core and Non Core - the core vaccines are Feline Panleukopenis (Distemper), Feline viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus, and Rabies. The non core vaccines are Feline Leukemia (FLV) Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIB) Ringworm and Chlamydia.

The important thing in the area of vaccines is to get your pet vaccinated when needed and not to overload your pets with to many vaccinations. Keep a record of each vaccine given so that you can keep track of what your pet needs and do not need. If your pet seems to be looking or acting differently before or after their vaccines, and even between annual check ups, do not take any chances. Take your pet to the vet to be sure that they are doing well. If you change vets, take your personal records as a back up so that over vaccination does not happen. Do your research on the vaccines so that you can be prepared for any possible side effects or allergy reactions. Overall, if you are taking your pet annually for check ups, they should do just fine.

Back to Database