While there is some controversy regarding vaccinations in both the human and pet worlds, the truth is most pets do need to be vaccinated and most owners do choose to vaccinate their pets.
There are several compelling reasons why veterinarians strongly advocate for pet vaccines. Some diseases that we vaccinate for, like rabies and leptospirosis, can affect or even kill humans. Many of the diseases we vaccinate against are also fatal to pets, such as Parvo. And, for those disease that are not fatal, the treatment for the diseases can be risky to pets and both inconvenient and costly to pet owners.
Vaccines help the body’s immune system prepare to fight the invasion of disease-causing organisms. When the vaccine is given, the immune system is stimulated so that if the pet is ever exposed to the real disease, the immune system will be better equipped to fight it off.
What vaccines an individual animal receives with what frequency are dependent on each pet’s individual situation and lifestyle. A few of the more common vaccines that may be recommended for your pet include the following…
Core Vaccines for Pets
A core vaccine is one that is considered essential for almost all pets. These include:
Rabies – Rabies vaccination is required by Colorado state law for all dogs, cats, and ferrets and is considered a core vaccine. Even pets who are kept indoors are strongly advised to receive this vaccine unless contraindicated for the safety of the animal and any humans with which they come into contact.
Canine Distemper – This core vaccine actually often contains protection against several diseases including distemper, canine hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. All of these are highly contagious and have serious consequences.
Feline Distemper – This vaccine and protects cats against feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (distemper). Rhinotracheitis and calicivirus can cause mild to severe respiratory disease, while panleukopenia is a severe and often deadly disease that can cause severe diarrhea and suppression of the bone marrow.
Leptospirosis –Lepto is a serious disease which can cause kidney failure and death in both pets and people. It is transmitted through the urine of wildlife and is given to dogs who might be exposed to the disease.
Non-Core Pet Vaccines
Some vaccines are only recommended for pets that are likely to be exposed to the respective diseases that they are used to prevent. We may recommend that your pet be vaccinated for:
Bordetella (Kennel cough) – Kennel cough is a very contagious disease that can lead to mild to severe respiratory infection. It is recommended for any pet which is exposed to other animals on a regular basis such as at the groomer, boarding kennel, or training classes. Vaccination can greatly reduce the duration and severity of illness.
Lyme Disease –Dogs who have exposure to ticks or travel to areas of the country where Lyme disease may be given this.
Rattlesnake Toxoid – Rattlesnake exposure is a real danger for Colorado pets. Vaccination can help slow the effects of a venom exposure so that you can seek care for your pet if bitten.
Canine Influenza –This a newer disease that can cause illness similar to kennel cough. It can be much more severe than kennel cough, but is usually not fatal. Dogs that are considered at risk are advised to receive this vaccine.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV) –Feline leukemia is a highly contagious disease of cats that can lead to immunosuppression and severe illness. Cats who go outside or live in households with other infected cats are at highest risk.
Vaccination is a powerful tool for preventing devastating disease in our pets. We are happy to talk to you about which vaccines your pets may need, and develop a personalized pet vaccination program for each furry member of your household. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.