Vaccinations

TIME FOR SHOTS: THE STORY OF VACCINATIONS

 

Pets, like people, can be protected from some diseases by means of vaccinations. Although this treatise provides basic information about shots for your dog or cat, your veterinarian is your best source for advice regarding individualized care.

Vaccines are health products that trigger protective immune responses in pets and prepare them to fight future infections from disease-causing bodies.

Discuss with your veterinarian your pet’s lifestyle, access to other animals, and travel to other geographic locations, since these factors affect your pet’s risk of exposure to disease. Not all pets should be given all shots just because they are available. “Core” vaccines are recommended for most pets in a particular area. “Non-Core” are reserved for pets with unique needs. Your veterinarian will consider your pet’s particulars, the diseases at hand, and the application and availability to customize a recommendation for your pet

Your veterinarian will tailor a schedule to suit your pet’s needs. For many years, a set of annual shots was considered normal and necessary for dogs and cats. Veterinarians have since learned more about diseases and pets’ immune systems, and there is increasing evidence that immunity triggered by some provides protection beyond one year. The immunity triggered by others may fail to protect for a full year. More than one successful schedule is possible. Talk with your veterinarian about what is best for your pet.

Many factors are taken into consideration when establishing a pet’s vaccination plan. Your veterinarian will tailor a program to help your pet maintain a lifetime of infectious disease protection.