Vaccinations for Puppies and Kittens

Vaccinations are simple and one of the easiest ways to keep your dog or cat healthy and feeling great. A trip to your veterinarian or to a local vaccination clinic and it is as simple as that.

Vaccinations work against viruses and bacteria by making your pet's immune system produce antibodies against each individual disease.

Vaccinations that are necessary for your dog are:

Rabies Vaccination - in today's pet world it is suggested that puppies receive their first vaccination at 3 months and then again at 1 year at which time they will need boosters every 3 years to keep them protected against rabies.

Parvovirus Vaccination - is given to a puppy and then once a year thereafter. Parvovirus is a severe gastro-intestinal disease, which is very expensive to treat. Even with aggressive treatment death can sometimes occur.

Canine Distemper Vaccination - this virus is widespread and can be fatal if contacted. If you will be taking puppy to a park or anywhere this is a must vaccination.

Canine Hepatitis & Para-Influenza Vaccinations - Puppies are routinely vaccinated for canine hepatitis and canine Para-influenza virus, as these are also diseases that can cause expensive vet bills and long recuperation periods. In some instances they can be fatal.

Lyme Disease Vaccinations - is generally a vaccination that is given depending on the location that your pets home will be, as Lyme Disease is not found throughout the United States.

Leptospirosis & Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccinations - If your puppy is going to be boarded or kenneled with other dogs it is always a good idea to vaccinate for bordetella and Leptospirosis. If you pet will be taken to a public dog park then this is a necessary vaccination.

Kitten vaccinations are:

Feline Distemper Vaccination - also known as feline Panleukopenia. Distemper is commonly seen in younger cats but adult cats can contract Feline Distemper.

Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus/Feline Calicivirse Vaccination - These vaccinations will keep your cat safe from respiratory diseases and are a must vaccination if you own a cat or kitten.

Feline Leukemia Vaccination - this vaccination will be recommended depending on the home location. If you move from one state to another be sure to discuss this vaccination with your veterinarian.

Rabies Vaccination - is also a necessary vaccination for cats/kittens. Just as in dogs it is given at 3 months, 1 year and then every 3 years thereafter.

Risks with vaccinations can be, soreness at injection site, fever, and lethargy. Some puppies can have allergic reactions to vaccinations and how signs of swelling in the face, difficulty breathing or other discomforts. Call the veterinarian immediately with any signs of allergic reaction. Some veterinarians will give a small dose of benedryl before shots are given, especially in small breed dogs such as Chihuahuas.

Also many dog breeders will tell customers that vaccinations are not necessary after the first year. Your veterinarian will disagree. Use common sense when raising and living with a dog/cat and do as instructed by the professionals.