Key Vaccinations Your Pet Needs for Optimal Health

Core Vaccinations for Dogs

• Rabies Rabies is a fatal virus that affects the brain and nervous system. Since it is transmissible to humans, vaccination is mandatory by law in many areas. It is essential for your dog’s safety and public health. Rabies vaccinations typically start when puppies are around 12-16 weeks old and continue at regular intervals throughout their life.

• Distemper Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms include fever, coughing, vomiting, and seizures. Distemper can be fatal, but vaccination can protect your dog from this deadly disease.

• Parvovirus Parvovirus primarily affects puppies and is known for causing severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. It's highly contagious and can be fatal if untreated. A series of vaccines beginning at 6-8 weeks of age can help shield your puppy from this illness.

• Adenovirus (Hepatitis) Canine adenovirus type 1 causes infectious hepatitis, a potentially deadly disease that targets the liver, kidneys, and blood vessels. The vaccination also protects against adenovirus type 2, which can cause respiratory infections. Vaccination against adenovirus is part of the DHPP vaccine combination (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza).

• Leptospirosis This bacterial infection is spread through water or soil contaminated with infected urine. Leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, liver failure, or even death in severe cases. Vaccination is especially recommended for dogs that spend time outdoors or in rural areas.

Core Vaccinations for Cats

• Rabies Like dogs, cats require rabies vaccinations for protection against this fatal and zoonotic disease. Even indoor cats are at risk if they escape or if wild animals enter the home.

• Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper) This highly contagious viral disease is often fatal, especially for kittens. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, and severe dehydration. Vaccination is crucial, starting at a young age to prevent the spread of this deadly virus.

• Feline Herpesvirus and Calicivirus Both herpesvirus and calicivirus cause upper respiratory infections in cats. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye inflammation. These viruses are highly contagious, and vaccination provides significant protection. These vaccines are often combined with panleukopenia in a single shot (FVRCP).

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) FeLV is a serious viral infection that can lead to immune system suppression, cancer, and anemia in cats. While not every cat may need this vaccine, it is strongly recommended for outdoor cats or those who interact with other cats.

Why Regular Vaccinations Are Important

Regular vaccinations are critical for maintaining your pet’s immunity to diseases, and many vaccines require boosters to remain effective. Puppies and kittens receive a series of vaccinations as their immune systems develop, but adult pets need annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine and their lifestyle.

At The Pets Place Animal Hospital, we tailor vaccination schedules to your pet’s specific needs, ensuring they receive optimal protection at every life stage. Our experienced veterinarians will guide you through the best vaccination plan to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Get Started with The Pets Place Animal Hospital Today

Vaccinating your pet is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect them from preventable diseases. It not only shields your pet but also helps safeguard the broader pet community.

If you have questions about which vaccines your pet needs, contact The Pets Place Animal Hospital in Riverside, California, by calling (951) 684-2181 to book an appointment today.