​Pets today can live longer, healthier lives than ever before; in part because of vaccines that help protect them from deadly infectious diseases. Over the years, vaccines against dangerous diseases have saved millions of pets and virtually eliminated some fatal diseases that were once common. Unfortunately, many infectious diseases still pose a significant threat to dogs and cats that are unvaccinated. Although vaccine programs have been highly successful and vaccines are considered routine today, we (as caregivers) and you (as pet parents) cannot afford to become complacent about keeping pets up-to-date on their vaccinations. 

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Vaccine Myths & Truths:

1. Small pets need a smaller amount. While this is a nice idea, there have been no studies to prove that administering a small portion of a vaccine is safe or effective. 
2. There is one set of vaccines for ALL pets. This is partly a myth. There are several "lifestyle" vaccines that are recommended based on your pets travel and activity. Not all pets will need all available vaccines.
3. It doesn't hurt anyone if I choose to not vaccinate my pet. While it is easy to have this train of thought, there are legal ramifications for not vaccinating. For instance, if a dog is not vaccinated for rabies and then has a bite situation, there are quarantine laws you (the owner) will be subject to.
4. Veterinarians over-vaccinate to support vaccine manufacturers. As an AAHA Accredited hospital we acknowledge and abide by the AAHA Vaccination Recommendations for General Practice. Our doctors only change protocols based on scientific studies not manufacture trends or incentives.

​Many vaccines are available for use in dogs and cats, but not every pet needs every available vaccine. Some vaccines are considered core vaccines and should be administered to all pets, whereas other vaccines are optional and may be recommended for pets based on a variety of factors, such as their risk for exposure to disease. Vaccine recommendations can also change throughout a pet's life, as travel habits and other variables change. We will consider all these factors as we determine which vaccines your pet should have. ​

Core Vaccines for dogs:
Rabies
DA2PP (distemper/parvo)

Optional Lifestyle vaccines for dogs:
Bordetella
Leptospirosis
Rattlesnake

Core vaccines for cats:
Rabies
​FVRCP (upper respiratory diseases)

Optional Lifestyle vaccines for cats:
Leukemia 

We understand that your pet is unique and that no single vaccine program will be ideal for every pet in every situation. Our doctors and other staff members are well-educated about veterinary vaccines, and our goal is to give you the best advice for keeping your pet healthy. Let us develop a vaccination schedule and ongoing booster routine that accounts for your pet's lifestyle, overall health, risk for exposure to infectious disease, and other factors. Protecting your pet is our primary goal, so developing an appropriate vaccine schedule for your pet is important to us. Call us today to set up an appointment to discuss your pet's vaccination needs.