While nursing, pets receive antibodies and nutrients from their mother's milk. When nursing stops, pets become more susceptible to illnesses because their immune systems do not have the same support they once did. As part of a preventative care routine, pet vaccinations can help protect your pet from life-threatening diseases.
For most pets, routine vaccinations start around the age of 6 to 8 weeks old and continue regularly throughout adulthood. Some vaccinations are even combined into a single syringe so a pet experiences fewer injections. After being vaccinated, most young pets take about 5 days to build protective antibodies with complete protection taking place after 14 days. Some vaccines require multiple dosages given over a short period of time, and most require booster shots every 6 months to 3 years. Pets who have been vaccinated have an advantage over those who have not. When a disease is detected, your vaccinated pet's immune system quickly responds, decreasing the severity of the illness or preventing it altogether. While it is rare, some pets do not develop immunity from their vaccinations and still become ill. If your pet has been vaccinated, is current on all of their booster shots, and has never shown signs of illness or disease, it has likely been successfully vaccinated.
There are many different types of vaccinations which can help your pet.
- Bordetella
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Hepatitis
- Canine Parainfluenza
- Corona Virus
- Heartworm
- Kennel Cough
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme Disease
- Parvovirus
- Rabies
Your Veterinarian can help you decide which vaccinations will help benefit your pet for years to come. Pet owners should note that vaccinations are preventative, not curative. A vaccination will prevent an illness, but if your pet is already suffering from a disease, a vaccine will not cure them.
Antony Animal Hospital provides a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to the health of your animals. To schedule an appointment, please fill out the form or call our office today.
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