Preventative

Vaccination of your cat is important for protection against contractible disease that may cause serious illness or fatality. The vaccines administered to your cat work to elicit the body’s immune response to produce antibodies for future protection.

What vaccines do you offer for cats?

We offer 4 vaccines for cats depending on life-stage and risk factors.

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP): This vaccine protects against these four viruses which cause a variety of illness from respiratory, to gastrointestinal upset. Some of these viruses can be fatal and all of them are transmitted via direct contact and possibly inhalation.
• Rabies: Rabies is incurable and fatal; it affects the nervous system and can be spread to humans. Vaccinating against rabies is required by law.
• FVRCP-R: This vaccine includes the original FVRCP complex, and adds on a rabies vaccination.
• Feline Leukemia (FLK): This vaccine protects against an incurable virus which weakens the immune system and is eventually fatal. It is transmitted via direct contact.

Does my indoor cat need to be vaccinated?

Yes! Indoor cats are susceptible to disease as well. There is always a risk of your cat getting outside where they are exposed to other animals, pathogens, and the potential to end up in a shelter, which risk is increased. Alongside this, some pathogens are airborne or can be carried into the home via clothes, shoes, and other pets. Further, cats are at risk of contracting rabies from bats and other pests that may enter the home. All of these are important as possible periods of household changes may cause stress which can lower the proper immune response and increase the risk of being ill if accidentally exposed to pathogens. Mitigating these risks is easily achieved through routine vaccination. An annual appointment following a scheduled vaccine program is important for the best possible protection.

Are there risks associated with cat vaccines?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks. However, the risks associated with vaccines are far less than the risk your cat has by not being vaccinated. After being vaccinated, you may notice your cat has a decreased appetite, is a bit lethargic, and has swelling at the injection site. Your cat may also spike a small fever, as their body works to create the new antibodies. These side effects should last between one and three days.

More severe reactions are typically a result of an allergic reaction. These include hives, swelling of the eyes/lips/neck, weakness, vomiting and collapse. In this situation, your veterinarian needs to be notified for an evaluation and they will determine if vaccines need to be separated in the future or if the risk is too high and your cat should not be vaccinated again.

When should I get my kitten vaccinated?

Kittens require three sets of vaccines to properly prepare their little bodies to fight off the contagious and deadly diseases, out in that big new world. They receive their first set of vaccines at 8 weeks of age, then again at 12 and 16 weeks of age. We not only give them their vaccinations but a wellness exam to ensure they are happy, and healthy, and progressing properly for their age. 

At 8 weeks of age they will receive their first vaccines which is the FVRCP complex, protecting against Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, panleukopenia and coronavirus. At 12 weeks they will receive a booster, and their first dose of the Feline Leukemia vaccine. At 16 weeks they receive a booster for all previous vaccinations and a rabies vaccine.

Vaccines needed for each dog varies depending on their lifestyle and what risks they may be exposed to. During your pet’s annual visit with us, we will discuss which vaccines will keep your fur baby best protected in their everyday lives.

Why is it important to vaccinate your dog?

Vaccinating your dog helps protect them from many illnesses, some of which are fatal, and from highly contagious diseases, which may also spread to humans. Annual appointments should be scheduled to follow a vaccination protocol for the best protection possible.

What types of vaccinations do you offer for dogs?

We offer 6 vaccines; the distemper complex, rabies vaccine, Bordetella, Lyme, DA2PP, and Leptospirosis. 

• Distemper Complex: Protects against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvovirus and coronavirus. Some of these diseases can be spread to humans. These diseases attack the respiratory system, liver, kidneys, and intestines. They may also cause joint pain and lethargy.
• Rabies: Rabies is incurable and fatal; it affects the nervous system and can be spread to humans. Vaccinating against rabies is required by law.
• Bordetella: More commonly known as kennel cough, the Bordetella vaccine protects against a virus which can cause coughing and sneezing, and is spread through direct contact. This vaccine is required when boarding dogs in a kennel or daycare. This vaccine may be an oral or injectable version.
• Lyme: Lyme is a disease spread by the deer tick to a dog when bitten. This disease is known to cause issues with the joints and kidneys. The vaccine is highly recommended for dogs who live or travel in Lyme endemic areas.
• DA2PP: This complex protects against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parainfluenza, and parvovirus.
• Leptospirosis: This vaccine only protects against leptospirosis.

When do I vaccinate my new puppy?

Puppies require three sets of vaccines to properly prepare their little bodies to fight off the contagious and deadly diseases, out in that big new world. They receive their first set of vaccines at 8 weeks of age, then again at 12 and 16 weeks of age. We not only give them their vaccinations but a wellness exam to ensure they are happy, and healthy, and progressing properly for their age. 

At 8 weeks of age they will receive their first vaccine (DA2PP) which will include distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parainfluenza, and parvovirus. At 12 weeks, they receive a boost of the original complex, with the addition of protection against coronavirus, and leptospirosis. At 16 weeks, they receive a final booster of the distemper complex, and a rabies vaccination. At their final vaccine appointment, you may opt for them to receive the Bordetella and Lyme vaccines based on lifestyle and exposure risk.

How should I prepare my puppy for their first vaccination visit?

You and your puppy should not be scared to come to visit us at the veterinary clinic. Before your puppy’s first vaccination appointment with us, schedule a time to come in just for a visit, step on the scale, meet our staff and get some treats. We want to ensure you both know that the veterinary clinic can be a fun place, and not just for check-ups and vaccinations. By taking that first car ride and visit with us before the first vaccines, it ensures that the next time you come in will be way less stressful for you both.

How much does it cost to vaccinate my dog?

The vaccine protocol for each dog differs based on health, age, lifestyle and exposure risks. During your annual visit with your fur-baby, we will provide your dog with a comprehensive physical exam and discuss what vaccines will best suit their needs. Please call our clinic today with any questions or concerns you may have about vaccines and the costs associated.

Ticks have increased in our area, and with them the cases of Lyme disease have increased at an alarming rate. Preventative is key in stopping the spread of tick-borne diseases, and is highly recommended. Our companies work hard every year to improve products, as fleas become more resistant.

How can I tell if my pet has parasites?

The first indication of fleas is an increased scratching and chewing at the base of the tail. In some cases, the skin becomes inflamed and possibly infected. If you see reddish-brown specks on your pet’s skin, it may be flea dirt and you should consult your veterinarian.

For internal parasites you may see evidence of worms in either their feces or vomit.

Ticks are usually found while grooming or petting your pet, they feel like lumps of varying sizes where the tick has embedded into the skin.

How can I prevent fleas and ticks on my animals?

We offer both oral and topical medications based on species, these will require a prescription and can be discussed with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your pet.

What are treatment options for animals with ticks?

Treatment involves removing and identifying the tick, and then the veterinarian will determine the best course moving forward.

What is deworming, and why is this needed?

Deworming is a method used to rid your pet of internal parasites “worms” that can carry infection and cause digestive upset. This is done through either an oral or topical medication depending on age. It is important to deworm so that your pet stays healthy, gains nutrients, and does not fall ill to illness.