Protecting From Disease With Essential Pet Vaccinations
Like us, our pets can be vulnerable to different diseases in their environment without adequate protection. While some diseases are certainly treatable, they can be costly and take a heavy toll on your pet's health. We offer pet vaccinations as an important layer of defense against infection and a way to keep your pet healthier, longer. Certain diseases, such as rabies and distemper, are highly lethal, while others may cause moderate illness.
At Tennessee Avenue Animal Hospital in Norwood, protecting your pet is our highest priority. One of our doctors will talk to you about your pet's need for vaccines and help you decide which ones will be most beneficial to their health.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Pet vaccines serve the same function as human vaccines. Each vaccine contains antigens that, once in the body, will mimic a certain disease and stimulate a response from the immune system. Your pet's immune system will respond by producing antibodies to destroy the "virus." With increased immunity, your pet will be better equipped to fight off disease entirely or recover quicker.
Vaccines We Offer For Dogs And Cats
Dogs and cats both have their own respective vaccines and vaccination schedules. Our vaccines are divided into core (highly recommended) and non-core (lifestyle-based) categories to prevent over vaccination and ensure the best protection for every pet.
Our dog and cat vaccines include:
Dogs
- Rabies – core
- Distemper/Hepatitis/Parvo/Parainfluenza combination/Lepto – core
- Bordetella
- Canine influenza
- Lyme
Cats
- Rabies – core
- FVRCP – core
- Leukemia
One year after your dog's first rabies vaccination, they will require re-vaccination every three years thereafter. For cats, we use non-adjuvanted vaccines. Adjuvants are usually included in vaccines to stimulate a stronger immune system response, but can have harmful effects on cats.
Scheduling Your Pet's Vaccinations
Non-core vaccines for dogs such as Bordetella, Lyme, and Influenza along with Leukemia for cats, are given based on the degree of risk. If your pet is likely to come into contact with any of these viruses, we will recommend vaccination. This is especially important to consider if you're planning to travel or relocate in the near future.
Additionally, not all vaccines are annual. We'll help you schedule your pet's vaccinations at the proper times to maintain their immunity and keep them as healthy as possible. If you have any concerns about your pet's vaccinations or the potential for an allergic reaction, we would be glad to help you. Call us today at (513) 242-2141 to schedule an appointment or request more information!