What vaccinations does my pet need?
Core vaccines for dogs include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis. For cats, core vaccines include rabies, feline distemper, calicivirus, and herpesvirus. Additional vaccines may be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors.
When should my pet be vaccinated?
Puppies and kittens should start vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age, with repeat or follow up vaccines until 16 weeks old. Adult pets require regular boosters as advised by your veterinarian.
We Understand Your Concern
If you’re feeling uncertain about which vaccinations your pet requires, you’re not alone. At Midland Animal Hospital, we understand that keeping track of your pet’s health needs can be overwhelming. We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure your furry friend stays protected.
Core Vaccines: Essential Protection
Ensuring pets are up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial. In Columbus:
- Rabies vaccinations are mandatory for all dogs and cats aged four months and older.
- Core vaccines for dogs include DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) and Rabies; for cats, FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) and Rabies.
- Non-core vaccines, such as Bordetella and Leptospirosis, may be recommended based on the pet’s lifestyle and exposure risk.
Core vaccines are recommended for all pets, regardless of their lifestyle or environment, as they protect against diseases that are widespread and potentially fatal.
For Dogs:
- Rabies: Legally required and protects against a deadly virus transmissible to humans.
- Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza (DA2PP): A combination vaccine safeguarding against several serious illnesses.
For Cats:
- Rabies: Required by law and crucial for preventing a fatal disease.
- Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP): Protects against common and severe feline diseases
Non-Core Vaccines: Based on Lifestyle
Non-core vaccines are administered based on your pet’s specific risk factors, such as exposure to other animals, travel habits, and local disease prevalence.
For Dogs:
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended for all dogs, but especially those that frequent boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons.
- Leptospirosis: Advised for dogs exposed to wildlife or standing water. Rats and mice are the most common carriers. Leptospirosis can also cause a range of symptoms in humans.
- Lyme Disease: Suggested for dogs in areas where ticks that carry the disease are prevalent.
For Cats:
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Recommended for cats that go outdoors or live in multi-cat households.
When Should You Be Concerned?
It’s important to consult your veterinarian if:
Your pet’s vaccination history is unknown or incomplete.
- You’re planning to board your pet or enroll them in daycare.
- Your pet has increased exposure to other animals or wildlife.
- You’re traveling to areas with different disease risks.
Regular veterinary visits will help ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and tailored to their needs.
If you’re ever unsure about your pet’s vaccination needs, we’re just a phone call away— ready to listen, guide you, and provide the care your pet needs to stay healthy.
Contact us now at midlandah@gmail.com or 706 323-8316
In summary, core vaccines are essential for all pets to protect against common, serious diseases. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure risks. If you have concerns or questions about developing a vaccination plan for your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Midland Animal Hospital to develop a vaccination plan tailored to your pet’s needs.