Young animals are like kids–it can be 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 guard against diseases prevalent in wildlife, including some that can be passed to human members of your family.
In addition, 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.
Which Vaccinations Should My Pet Have?
At Chestnut Street Animal Hospital, vaccine protocols are individualized to the patient, but in addition to rabies (which is mandated by law), we typically recommend:
Dogs:
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Distemper-Parvo
- Lyme
- Leptospirosis
- Canine Influenza (if boarding)
Cats:
- Distemper
- Feline Leukemia (if cat is at risk)
It’s also important to note that even pets who live primarily indoors should be vaccinated, as they can still be exposed to a disease. Your Chestnut Street Animal Hospital 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 781-444-8838.