Pet Vaccinations From Our Vet
Pet vaccinations are health products designed to protect pets from infectious diseases. Vaccines stimulate your pet’s immune system to fight against sickness and disease. In some cases, vaccines keep your pet from getting sick. In other cases, the vaccine might reduce the severity of your pet’s symptoms. Either way, vaccines work on your pet’s behalf to preserve its health. If you live in Dothan, AL, or surrounding communities, you can bring your furry friend to us at Westwood Pet Care, your local animal hospital, for pet vaccinations.
Disease Prevention
Just like humans, dogs and cats can fall ill to various sicknesses and diseases. By vaccinating your pets, you significantly reduce the risk of them contracting dangerous illnesses that may have no cure or could potentially lead to a fatal illness. Vaccinations offer crucial protection against diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, distemper, parvovirus, and more.
Why You Should Vaccinate Your Pet
As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for them. One crucial aspect of their well-being is ensuring they receive proper vaccinations. Vaccinating your pets not only protects them from harmful diseases but also safeguards the health of your family and other pets they meet. Let’s explore why pet vaccinations are so important and how they contribute to a longer, healthier life for your beloved companions.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines
Vaccines are categorized into two types: core and non-core vaccines. Puppies and kittens often require multiple doses of vaccines properly spaced out over a course of months, so we recommend proactively scheduling these. Consulting with a veterinarian early can help determine the best vaccination plan for your furry friend.
Core Vaccinations
Core vaccines are essential for all pets as they provide protection against high-risk diseases that can have severe consequences. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends core vaccines for most pets, and the veterinarians at Westwood Pet Care can advise you on your pet’s specific health needs.
As of 2022, AAHA core vaccines for dogs are:
- Distemper
- Distemper attacks the lungs, intestines, and nervous systems of dogs.
- Did you know that ferrets can also catch distemper? Westwood Pet Care is able to vaccinate ferrets against distemper, also!
- Distemper attacks the lungs, intestines, and nervous systems of dogs.
- Adenovirus
- Adenovirus is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is one of the causes of Kennel Cough.
- Parvovirus
- “Parvo” is a contagious and lethal disease that attacks the intestines of dogs.
- Rabies (Rabies vaccinations are legally required in the state of Alabama)
- Rabies is an extremely lethal disease that attacks the nervous system and is transmissible to humans. Rabies is preventable with proper vaccination!
As of 2020, AAHA core vaccines for cats include:
- Feline calicivirus (FCV)
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
- Feline panleukopenia (FPV)
- Rabies (Rabies vaccinations are legally required in the state of Alabama)
Noncore Vaccinations
The veterinarians at Westwood Pet Care can assess your pet’s specific lifestyle and recommend non-core vaccines accordingly. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on factors such as your pet’s lifestyle and location, offering custom protection tailored to their specific needs.
As of 2022, AAHA non-core vaccines for dogs include:
- Leptospira
- Lepto is a contagious bacterial infection that is common in warm, wet climates.
- Canine Lyme Disease
- This bacterial disease can be carried by ticks.
- Bordetella
- This bacteria is one of the causes of Kennel Cough.
- Canine Influenza Virus
- “Dog Flu” is a contagious respiratory illness.
Protecting Your Family and Community
Pet vaccinations not only safeguard your pets but also help protect your entire family. Certain diseases can be transmitted from animals to humans, known as zoonotic diseases. By vaccinating your pets, you minimize the chances of these diseases spreading to you and your loved ones. Additionally, when your pets meet other animals, vaccinations prevent the transmission of contagious diseases, ensuring the safety of the entire pet community.
Longevity and Quality of Life
Vaccinations are an integral part of preventive veterinary care. By keeping your pets up to date with vaccinations, you can provide them the best opportunity for more time to spend with you! Vaccines help alleviate the fear of your pet falling seriously ill from certain infectious diseases, providing you with peace of mind and allowing them to thrive.
Our veterinary team prioritizes the health and well-being of your treasured pets. Vaccinating is a crucial step in helping to protect your pet’s health from potentially life-threatening diseases. By taking this proactive approach, you not only safeguard their lives but also contribute to a healthier community.
Please call or e-mail us today to set up a consultation for pet vaccines in Dothan to provide your furry friend the protection they need to lead a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life!