Frequently Asked Questions About Our Vaccinations in Fountain Hills, AZ
Here at Friendship Pet Hospital, much of the work we do is preventative in nature. Pet vaccines are one of the most important tools in our preventative wellness arsenal — but how much do you actually know about them? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about our vaccinations in Fountain Hills, AZ.
What’s the purpose of vaccination?
Vaccination is a procedure aimed at “jump-starting” your pet’s immune system to produce antibodies against deadly diseases without actually having to expose it to those threats for real. This gives your pet strong immune protection against the genuine disease organisms as long as the pet vaccine in question maintains its potency.
What do pet vaccines actually do?
Pet vaccines mimic live diseases, fooling the immune system into producing protective antibodies. A vaccine is a killed or otherwise inert modification of a disease organism. It cannot infect your pet, but it contains the molecular markers that trigger the production of antibodies.
Why do puppies and kittens seem to require so many vaccinations?
Puppies and kittens are born with no natural immunity of their own against certain deadly diseases. Several rounds of vaccinations during the first year of life build up a solid base of immunity to carry them into adulthood.
What are booster shots?
Booster shots are periodic updates that pets of all ages require as their original vaccines lose strength. By administering these updates as needed, we can maintain your pet’s disease immunity without any dangerous lapses.
What vaccinations does my dog need?
All dogs should receive essential or “core” vaccinations against canine distemper, canine hepatitis, rabies, and parvovirus.
What vaccinations does my cat need?
Cats need to be vaccinated against rabies (which they can carry even if they do not suffer from the infection themselves), rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia.
What are elective vaccinations?
Elective vaccinations are recommended when your pet’s lifestyle or environment entails additional disease risks. For example, we may recommend Lyme disease vaccinations for pets that spend lots of time outdoors. Our team can advise you on your pet’s particular needs.
Should I be worried about side effects or complications?
Vaccinations rarely cause side effects beyond mild soreness, slightly elevated temperature and other harmless, temporary symptoms, although some animals may experience allergic reactions (which we can treat). The benefits of vaccination far outweigh these minimal risks!
How can I keep my pet current on his vaccinations in Fountain Hills?
Your veterinarian at Friendship Pet Hospital can administer any vaccinations or updates during annual wellness exams. If you ever have any questions about your pet’s vaccinations, feel free to contact us.
Schedule Your Fountain Hills Pet Vaccinations Today!
Now that you have a clearer idea of what pet vaccines can do for your beloved companion, take action today to provide him with this essential form or preventative care. Call (480) 889-0881 to schedule any needed Fountain Hills pet vaccinations today!