What You Should Know About Vaccines in Your Pets The virtual eradication of polio in people is just one example of the vital power provided by vaccinations. And vaccinations are just as important in pets. Throughout their lives, your pets will likely be exposed to several infectious diseases that can cause severe illness or even death. But if you’ve taken steps to prevent infection through vaccination, you will greatly extend the life of your pets. Which vaccines should my pet receive? The veterinarian will recommend several core vaccines that all pets should receive in order to maintain their health and prevent serious disease. For dogs, these vaccines may include rabies, parvovirus, adenovirus, and distemper. For cats, core vaccinations may include rabies, panleukopenia virus, herpesvirus, and calicivirus. If you are boarding a pet, the facility may require vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacteria that causes a common and highly contagious disease known as kennel cough. We recommend the Bordetella vaccine for any dog that is in regular contact with strange dogs, especially those that frequent the groomer, the dog park or doggy day cares. The veterinarian may recommend other vaccines as well, depending on where you live, your pet’s lifestyle and level of health, and the risk of your pet passing on disease to other pets or even you. What should I look for after my pet has been vaccinated? Vaccines can cause side effects, but they are very mild in most cases. Your pet may experience a mild fever, have a decreased appetite, or be a bit sluggish for a day or two after the vaccination. In addition, you may note slight swelling or pain at the vaccination site. These are all normal reactions and do not require medical attention. However, rarely, more severe reactions to vaccination can occur that may result in swelling in the face or limbs, generalized itching, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse. If any of these more serious signs develop or you are concerned about any reaction in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact the veterinary clinic immediately to schedule an appointment. How often does my pet need to be vaccinated? Dogs and cats should receive their vaccinations on an annual basis. The only exception to this is the Canine Rabies vaccine which can be licensed for 3 years if the dog has received the vaccine previously. This means that the first Rabies vaccine your puppy receives is valid for 1 year while the next one they receive will be valid for 3 years. Compliments of The Collegeway Animal Hospital (905)-828-8808 thecollegewayah@gmail.com Sample Vaccination Schedule: Canine: 8 weeks – DHPPL 12 weeks – DHPPL +/- Bord 16 weeks – DHPPL and Rabies (1 yr) 1 year – DHPPL, Rabies (3 yr) +/- Bord 2 year – DHPPL +/- Bord. 3 year – DHPPL +/- Bord. * Bord = Bordetella Feline: 8 weeks – FVRCP 12 weeks – FVRCP +/- FelV 16 weeks – FVRCP, Rabies 1 yr– FVRCP, Rabies +/- FelV 2 yr- FVRCP, Rabies +/- FelV 3 yr - FVRCP, Rabies +/- FelV * FelV = Feline Leukemia