Pet vaccinations are a must, just like human ones.
Without the required vaccinations, your pet will be more prone to disease which can be lethal to both you and your pet. Also, if you are traveling, many countries demand vaccinations before boarding a flight with your pet. Here are some reasons why you must vaccinate your pet and the diseases you can avoid by doing so. In this article, we’re highlighting everything you need to know about puppy vaccination.
What are vaccines and why are they important?
Vaccines are injections that are administered to your pet so that it develops a stronger immune system. They will be immunised to fight against a particular disease if they have taken a vaccine for it. Vaccines will improve the production of antibodies in your pet’s body. So, if the virus/disease enters the body, they can identify and fight it.
If your pet is vaccinated, it reduces their chances of falling sick or lowers the severity of certain diseases. Also, because your pet is coming close to you and your family members, their vaccination is important. Without vaccination, some diseases they can carry pose a risk to humans and can be life-threatening, such as rabies.
Why should you vaccinate your pet?
Vaccination is life-saving for you, your nearest and dearest, and your pet as well. In the case of many diseases, there is no cure, so you can only take precautions for your beloved pet. Vaccination will lower the risk your pet might face if they contract the disease.
A study says that due to vaccinations, there is a considerable reduction in death and diseases in animals. So, if all pet owners start to do this, we can almost eradicate many diseases and our pets will also suffer less. Also, if you are concerned about money, a vaccine or a booster costs much less than the treatment your pet will go through if it gets infected.
Which vaccine should you go for?
Every area or country has its own “core” vaccines. Scientists have categorized and developed vaccines for the diseases that are prevalent in that particular geographical location. There are also “non-core” vaccines for pets with specific needs. Generally, after meeting with you and your pet, vets suggest a list of vaccinations applicable to your pet. Don’t ignore this advice, as vets have more experience and know what disease your pet has a possibility of catching. Vaccination is a must and you must not skip it. Also, if you are going to travel with your pet, talk to their vet about the necessary vaccinations for that country.
The most common dog and cat vaccinations
If you own a pet dog, the most common vaccines you need to give are-
- Canine distemper
- Canine Parainfluenza
- Parvovirus,
- Leptospirosis,
- Adenovirus 1 and 2
- Rabies or Kennel Cough
Go for the vaccines below if you are a cat owner.
- Feline Chlamydophilosis
- Cat Flu
- Feline Infectious Enteritis
- Feline Leukemia
Are there risks associated with vaccination?
Any medication comes with risks to be honest, but generally the benefits outweigh the risks for your pet. Most pets don’t show any adverse reactions to vaccination, rather a dose can protect you, your family, and your pet. It’s better if your pet faces some mild or momentary vaccine reactions than to contract a fatal disease.
Though it is a very rare vaccine reaction, at times cats face sarcomas, which are tumors in their body. This can arise weeks, months, or years after you vaccinate your cat.
Myths about vaccinations
Because of some myths, pet owners sometimes hesitate to vaccinate their pets. You need to research the hard scientific evidence and look at previous studies before you believe these myths. After all, you don’t want to risk your and your pet’s health. Some believe that they don’t need vaccinations as the diseases are rare, but you need to understand that they are rare purely because people vaccinate their pets regularly.
Of course, vaccinations don’t guarantee that your pet won’t contract the disease as the diseases can mutate. But be sure that it won’t be as serious as if you skip the dose. Vaccines on the pet market are subject to strict regulations, so rest assured they have been tested.
