Do you know how many core vaccinations your dog or cat needs? How often does your pet need to be vaccinated? Which diseases can be prevented by vaccines? Dr. Ohlen and our team at Highway 71 Veterinary Hospital in Cedar Creek have put together a guide on vaccinations for cats and dogs.
Core Canine Vaccinations
Your dog should receive core and non-core vaccines, depending on his lifestyle and risk of exposure to certain diseases. Core vaccines are those that are necessary for nearly all dogs. They include:
1. Distemper
It is a highly contagious and often fatal disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. There is no cure for canine distemper, so vaccination is essential to protect your dog. The vaccine is usually given as a combination vaccine with other core vaccines such as parvovirus and hepatitis.
2. Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that attacks the gastrointestinal system and can cause severe dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is often fatal, especially in young puppies. The vaccine is usually given as a combination vaccine with other core vaccines such as distemper and hepatitis.
3. Rabies
Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through saliva, usually through a bite wound. Rabies is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans. Vaccination is required by law and is essential to protect your dog and family.
Core Feline Vaccinations
Feline core vaccines are those that are necessary for nearly all cats. They include:
1. Feline Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
It prevents an often fatal disease caused by a highly contagious virus. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and can cause severe dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1)
It prevents an airborne virus that causes upper respiratory infections, often called “cat flu.” It is a common disease in cats and can be severe in young kittens.
3. Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
It prevents another virus that causes upper respiratory infections, often called “cat flu.”
Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccination Appointment
Following a recommended vaccination schedule is vital to ensure that your pet is adequately protected. If you have a cat or dog that is not on a vaccination schedule and you live in or around Bastrop or Cedar Creek, contact Highway 71 Veterinary Hospital to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ohlen. Call our team today at (512) 303-5444 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.