Here at Pets'n'Vets we believe that vaccinations are an important part of protecting your pets from severely harmful, yet preventable diseases and are an essential part of responsible pet care.
Dogs, cats and rabbits are susceptible to a number of life-threatening diseases, but scientific advances and the introduction of immunisation has been very effective in reducing the number of cases dramatically. It is tempting to assume that they are no longer a threat to our pets as we hear little about them, but they still do remain a constant danger, meaning the correct vaccination programme is the best way to keep your pet safe.
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How do vaccinations work for my pet?
Vaccines contain harmless (either weakened or dead) variants of the viruses and other infectious agents. When an animal is vaccinated the immune system in the body responds by generating a protective mechanism through the formation of antibodies. If the animal then becomes exposed to the actual disease at a later date, those antibodies will prevent the disease from developing.
The type of vaccines Pets'n'Vets recommend will be based on your pet’s lifestyle, risk factors and current guidance. Modern vaccines give protection to multiple diseases with just one or two injections. It is important to remember though that vaccines don’t give lifelong immunity and that is why regular booster vaccinations are recommended. It is also an excellent opportunity for your pet to have a full health check. We send out reminders for all vaccinations; please contact us to book an appointment.
Vaccinating your dog
Dogs are routinely vaccinated against: Parvovirus, Distemper, Canine Adenovirus, Leptospirosis and Kennel Cough. To protect puppies, they require a first vaccination when they are 8 weeks old, a second vaccination at 10 weeks old, and a separate Kennel Cough vaccination. They are not fully protected against these diseases until one week after the second vaccine, and so should not mix with unvaccinated dogs until this time.
Dogs then require a yearly booster of Leptospirosis and Kennel Cough, and a 3-yearly booster for Parvovirus, Distemper and Adenovirus. We invite all our canine patients in for a yearly health check, where our vet will discuss with you which vaccinations are recommended.
The team here at Pets'n'Vets can provide the following vaccinations for your dog:
- Parvovirus
- Leptospirosis
- Distemper
- Canine Infectious Hepatitis
- Rabies
- Leishmaniasis
- Herpes vaccination
- Kennel Cough
A full health check is booked for every dog that is having a vaccination to ensure that they are in good health before giving the injection.
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Vaccinating your cat
Cats are routinely vaccinated against: Feline Calici virus, the Herpesvirus which causes cat-flu, and Feline panleukopenia virus. In addition, if your cat goes outdoors, we recommend vaccinating against Feline Leukaemia virus.
To protect kittens, the first vaccine should be given at 9 weeks, with a second vaccine 3 weeks later. Adult cats require yearly boosters, at which time they will also get a thorough health check.
Here at Pets'n'Vets can vaccinate your cat against the following diseases:
- Cat Flu
- Feline Enteritis
- Feline Leukaemia Virus
- Feline Chlamydophila
We can talk you through any type of vaccination that may be required for your cat.
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Vaccinating your rabbit
Rabbits should be vaccinated for Myxomatosis as well as a fatal disease called Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. These have increased in incidence over the last few years, and as these diseases are spread by biting flies, vaccination is highly recommended even for indoor bunnies. Rabbits can be vaccinated from 5 weeks old.
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If you have any questions about which vaccinations your pet requires, please get in touch with us today.
Pet Vaccination FAQs
Why does my pet need to have vaccinations every 12 months?
Depending on the disease that your pet is being vaccinated against, the period of time that they are protected will differ. Certain diseases, such as leptospirosis in dogs and flu in cats only carry around 12 months protection, which is why a yearly booster is recommended.
Even though you pet might be being vaccinated every 12 months, it is not always against the same diseases – your vaccination card will show you which diseases they are getting boosters for each visit. Visiting us every 12 months for vaccinations also means your pet gets a full annual health check, which is equally important!
Does my pet need to be vaccinated if they live inside?
Although your pet may not go outside, it is still possible for diseases to be brought into the house. This could be via soil on a dirty boot or via other wildlife that could enter the home. Therefore, having full vaccination can provide the protection needed for all circumstances, meaning you don’t have to take the risk.
I have heard that vaccines are risky and to avoid them – is that true?
Any veterinary procedure that is performed can carry some sort of risk, however in the case of vaccinations, it is important to remember that for the majority of pets the benefits of being vaccinated greatly outweighs the risks. Vaccination reactions are rare and where they do occur, they are mostly short-term and mild. Reactions of this nature show that the vaccine is effectively stimulating the immune system.
The team at Pets'n'Vets are always happy to talk to you about the benefits and risks associated with vaccinating your pet to help identify the most suitable strategy as part of their wider preventative healthcare programme.
With the current COVID restrictions, are you accepting appointments for vaccinations?
For the latest update on visiting your local Pets'n'Vets for a vaccination appointment, please read our guidelines.
Are there any schemes/offers to help with covering the cost of my pets’ vaccinations?
Pets’n’Vets Pet Health for Life plan allows you to spread the cost of essential healthcare for your pet, with an annual health check and vaccinations (including kennel cough for dogs).
