The joy of bringing home a little bundle of furry energy can be quickly overshadowed by the list of things you have to do to provide for them – but it’s all worth it. Your new pet depends on you for everything, but perhaps the most important part of your job is to protect them from disease. Sure, the list of new pet vaccinations can be daunting, but we’re here to help you decode these dangerous diseases and encourage their prevention.
Need vs. Optional
Some new pet vaccinations are more appropriate for pets who will be visiting public places or areas frequented by other animals. However, even strictly indoor pets should receive the bare minimum of new pet vaccinations to protect them from potential exposure to disease.
For Pups
Dogs should receive the following new pet vaccinations shortly after arriving at their new home:
- Bordetella, the primary cause of kennel cough, is responsible for serious coughing fits, vomiting, seizures, and even death.
- Canine distemper affects the respiratory, GI, and nervous systems and is spread through the air and contaminated surfaces. The virus is shed for months and treated only with supportive care. Dangerous secondary infections are likely to develop.
- Parvovirus is the most risky for puppies under the age of four months and may involve severe dehydration if vomiting and diarrhea aren’t controlled.
- Rabies is often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and is mandated by the state of Virginia. Animals must receive this vaccine by 4 months of age.
- Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of the liver.
- Canine parainfluenza is one of the viruses that can lead to and worsen kennel cough.
- Kennel cough can be caused by any combination of viral, bacterial, or other infections and can cause various symptoms. From mild coughing to retching, kennel cough spreads rapidly among unprotected dogs.
- Corona virus can affect the GI system and can cause respiratory infections.
- Leptospirosis is a disease caused by bacteria found in soil and water. This is also zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans.
- Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that attacks the lymph nodes, heart, kidneys, and neurological system.
For Cats
New pet vaccinations for felines are split into two categories:
- Core vaccinations protect against the most common and especially dangerous feline diseases. These are recommended for kittens and cats of all ages and include feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies.
- Non-core vaccinations include protection from illnesses only cats with certain lifestyles are exposed to, such as feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus, feline infectious peritonitis, chlamydophila, and feline Giardia vaccinations.
Schedule of New Pet Vaccinations
We’re happy to provide information about the time frame in which your new pet would benefit the most from vaccinations. Titer tests and boosters are often required to keep your pet’s immunity at its peak.
Please contact Godspeed Animal Care with further questions or concerns. Our veterinarians and staff are always here for you and your new pet!