PET VACCINATIONS

If you own a pet, it is important that you get him or her vaccinated. The right vaccines can protect your pet and other family members from dangerous diseases. If you have any questions regarding shots for your cat, dog, or other pet, speak with our veterinarian at Brighton Veterinary Hospital in New Brighton. Let’s take a look at what vaccinations your pet may need and how they work to keep your pet safe.

The Difference Between Core and Non-Core Vaccines

When it comes to vaccines for cats, dogs, and other pets, they typically fall into two groups: core and non-core. A core vaccine is a vaccine that every pet should get. As a pet owner, you have probably heard of rabies before. This dangerous disease is almost always fatal once it is contracted. Infected pets can infect other pets and even people as well. Fortunately, the rabies vaccine can prevent your pets from contracting this deadly disease.

Then there are non-core vaccines. These vaccinations are often considered optional. Should your pet get an optional vaccine? That comes down to his or her lifestyle. If your pet has a weak immune system, you may want to get a canine or feline influenza shot, for example, to protect it from the flu.

Core and Non-Core Vaccines For Dogs

Rabies is a core vaccine for dogs. That said, the rabies vaccine is not the only core canine vaccine. All dogs should also get vaccinations for parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis. These shots are important for protecting your pet’s health. Local authorities may also require these core vaccinations.

Non-core vaccines for canines include Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria. Our veterinarian will work with you to see which vaccines are recommended for your dog. This vaccination schedule will be based on your pet's lifestyle and other risk factors.

Core and Non-Core Vaccines For Cats

As for your cat, calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type I, rabies, and distemper are considered core vaccines. Non-core feline vaccines include Bordetella, the leukemia virus, Chlamydophila felis, and the feline immunodeficiency virus.

Booster Shots and More

Finally, your pet may need to get booster shots to increase how effective their immune system handles various diseases. Booster shots for rabies, for example, are often recommended if not required. When it comes to pet vaccinations there is a lot to consider but our veterinarian will assist you every step of the way.