August is Immunization Awareness Month. We would like to take a moment to share some information about the most common vaccinations your pet needs to stay healthy and live a long life by your side.
Distemper
Both cats and dogs need a distemper series as youngsters, which can be boostered or verified with a titer throughout their adult life. Although the canine and feline versions of the Distemper vaccine are different, they are both just as important to their health.
- Canine Distemper/Parvo combination or DHPP: distemper virus, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza
- Feline Distemper or FVRCP: feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and parainfluenza
These are all serious diseases, some of which can be deadly or have life-long effects on your pets.
Rabies
Every cat and dog is required to have an updated rabies vaccine by law. This is given as a puppy or kitten and then every 1-3 years depending on the type of vaccine given. Rabies has no treatment and is fatal if contracted, so it is very important to keep this vaccine updated.
Optional vaccines
There are numerous additional vaccines that your pet may need depending on a number of factors including your location, your pet’s age and your pet’s potential risk of exposure.
Cats
- Feline leukemia virus or FeLV
- Chlamydiosis
- Feline infectious peritonitis or FIP
- Feline immunodeficiency virus or FIV
Dogs
- Coronavirus
- Canine influenza
- Lyme
- Leptospirosis
- Bordatella or kennel cough
Vaccines are important for your pet’s well-being, but we do not want your pet to receive too many vaccinations. As always, discuss the risks and benefits of these optional vaccines with your pet’s veterinarian.
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