It’s no secret how much you love your furry best friends. Not only do you buy them the best pet food and toys money can buy, you also let them have the best spots on the couch and in the bed, and are diligent about keeping their vaccinations up-to-date. Wait, you’re not certain if your dog or cat is current on their recommended vaccines?
While we would love to hear that everyone stays on top of this, it’s actually pretty common for owners to fall behind on getting vaccines for their pets. Like with humans, our animal friends are susceptible to diseases and illnesses that can be prevented and side-stepped with routine vaccines.
Should My Pet Get Vaccinated?
The short answer is Yes. The is especially important for animals that run around outside frequently or socialize with other animals at parks, pet daycare centers, kennels and at other people’s homes with their pets. Even animals that never leave the safety of the house need vaccines, as you never know when an opportunity may present itself where a harmful or even deadly virus could be introduced. Yet another reason your pet should be vaccinated is because is the law. Indeed, many states require that your pets are vaccinated against rabies.
What Vaccinations Should My Pet Receive?
There are standard vaccinations that are recommended for every healthy cat and dog. These include vaccinations against diseases like rabies and distemper. However, every pet is different and comes in with different circumstances. A vaccine that is safe one for one pet may not be safe for another with a compromised immune system. It’s important to talk with your vet so you can decide which vaccines make the best sense for your pet.
When and How Often Should I Get My Pet Vaccinated?
Ideally, all pets should have their initial set of core vaccinations once their immune systems are mature enough to handle them, typically around 6 weeks of age. As with the type of vaccines, the schedule of vaccines can vary based on the current health of the pet. Though infrequent, some pets may not need vaccines yearly due to lifestyle. Assuming your pet is of good, typical health, it is likely they will follow a vaccination schedule similar to the one listed here. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to discuss your pet’s particular needs.
