Since we are nearing the end of August and it is immunization month, it’s a good time for pet owners to take time to learn more about pet vaccination. Although you might not have arranged to have your pets immunized, it’s important to understand that immunization advancements can help your pets live longer.  Pet vaccination from Little Rock AR vets is crucial to protect your pet against infectious diseases, some of which are deadly. You want your pet to be adequately inoculated so they can live a longer, happier life. Here we explain what vaccinations are required and the proper times for immunization. What are Vaccines? Vaccines help your pet fight disease-causing organisms using antigens that are much like the organisms that cause illness. These antigens won’t harm your pet. Instead, the vaccine stimulates the system to prepare your pet’s body so should they be exposed to the actual germs, they are able to fight off the sickness or reduce how the illness affects them. What are Vaccination Programs for Pets? Speaking to your Little Rock veterinarian is the first step to reducing the risk of your pet contracting infectious diseases. We will provide a tracked vaccination program based on your pet’s needs and ensure your pet is vaccinated at the appropriate times to keep their health on track. We will consider your pet’s individual needs to ensure they receive suitable vaccinations for their lifestyle. Our doctors at SRVC never take a one size fits all approach to vaccinations as each pet’s health is different. We will create an individualized schedule and give you a call when it’s time for your pet’s next shot. Each pet receives the recommended core vaccinations and then we determine which non-core vaccines are required based on risk. What are Core Vaccines? Core vaccines are the vaccines needed to reduce the risk for the diseases your pet is most likely to be exposed to. They also include the diseases that can be passed on to you. They are different for cats and dogs and include: Dogs Canine parvovirus Distemper Canine hepatitis Rabies Non-core vaccines include Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi and Leptospira bacteria. Cats Panleukopenia (feline distemper) Feline calicivirus Feline herpesvirus type i (rhinotracheitis) Rabies Non-core vaccines include feline leukemia virus, Bordetella, Chlamydophila felis and feline immunodeficiency virus. Timing and Frequency Your pet’s recommended vaccine schedule is as follows: Dogs: Vets for dogs Little Rock AR generally give puppies their first vaccinations at six to eight weeks at intervals of three vaccinations at three- to four-week intervals with the final dose being given at 16 weeks. As adults, it depends on the recommended vaccine program that could include shots either annually, every three years, or even longer. Cats: Vets for cats Little Rock AR usually give kittens their first vaccines at six to eight weeks also at three- or four-week intervals until the age of 16 weeks. Adult cats are vaccinated every one or three years. At Shackleford Road Veterinary Clinic, we are here to help keep your pet healthy and happy. We are ready to help you learn more about immunizations for your pet. If you would like more information about shots for pets or need to schedule an appointment, you can become a new patient here.

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