Vaccinations
Young animals are like kids–it’s a never-ending job to keep them safe and happy. Vaccinating your pet is a relatively inexpensive but very important way to protect his or her health. In addition to preventing many life-threatening illnesses, vaccinations can prevent diseases prevalent in wildlife and those that can be passed to humans. It’s important to administer vaccinations when pets are puppies and kittens because their young immune systems are still developing and need protection to stay healthy.
While any medical treatment involves some degree of risk, in the case of vaccinations, the benefits far outweigh any potential side effects. Adverse reactions are rare and usually mild and short-term when they do occur.
Core Pet Vaccines
Which vaccines should your pet have? “Core” vaccines are those recommended—and possibly mandated by law—for most pets. Core pet vaccines include:
- Rabies (dogs and cats)
- DA2PPV – Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus 2, Parvo and Parainfluenza (dogs)
- FVRCP – Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (cats)
Other non-core, but highly recommended vaccinations for cats include FIV, which protects against feline immunodeficiency virus, and FeLV, which protects against feline leukemia. For dogs, Bordetella and canine influenza vaccines are advised for those who visit dog parks, boarding kennels, or other places where they interact with other dogs. Additionally, the Leptospirosis (Lepto) vaccine is recommended, as it protects against a serious bacterial disease that dogs can contract from contaminated water, soil, or contact with wildlife. This vaccine helps protect your dog from this potentially life-threatening infection, which can cause kidney and liver damage.
Pet Vaccination In Omaha, NE
Your Fort Street Veterinarian veterinarian can advise you which vaccinations are required or recommended for your pet based on age, health, and lifestyle. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 402-884-3383.
