Pet Vaccination FAQs

Vaccinations provide an effective way to keep your pets from getting easily-preventable diseases, and potentially help them live longer. There are many misconceptions about vaccines that make some pet owners question whether or not to get them for their animals. These preventive tools are safe to use and come with a high success rate. If you are still trying to determine if it’s the best option for your pet, here are answers to some frequently asked pet vaccination questions:

What Are Pet Vaccines?

Vaccines are shots that carry a dead or weakened version of a particular disease, like rabies, and introduces it to an animal’s immune system. Once exposed, the immune system learns how to fight off this particular disease so it knows how to do it in the future. If your pet is eventually exposed to the disease, the immune system is able to completely fight it off or to significantly weaken it. Vaccines can give a pet the tools to avoid succumbing to a preventable disease. They are vital for keeping your pet healthy.

Are Vaccines Safe?

In general, vaccines are very safe for pets. As with any medical procedure, there is a small risk associated with vaccinations, but these are very rare. If an animal does experience side effects after a vaccine, they are typically very mild and go away after a few days. In very rare cases, an animal will have an allergic reaction. If you are having concerns, talk to your veterinarian about vaccines and your pet. They can walk you through the minimal risks and help you make an informed decision about your pet’s care.

How Often Do Pets Need Vaccines?

If you have your pet in their puppy or kitten years, there will be a series of vaccines you need to get. Once those are completed, most vaccines are good for a certain amount of time before the immunity they build starts to wane. This timeline differs for each vaccine, but your veterinarian can tell you how often your pet will need particular shots. Many are good for a few years at a time. 

What Vaccinations Do I Need for My Pet?

Vaccines are divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are those that are considered important for any pet no matter their lifestyle. Some vaccines, like rabies, are required by law in certain places. Non-core vaccines are those that might be important for a pet that lives a certain lifestyle. Cats that go outside will need different vaccines than those that stay entirely in the house, for example. Your veterinarian can give you recommendations based on your pet’s needs.

What Are Common Diseases that Vaccines Can Prevent?

The most common vaccinations for pets include:

• Rabies
• Canine distemper
• Canine influenza
• Canine parvovirus
• Feline panleukopenia 
• Leptospirosis

Your veterinarian will recommend vaccinations based on your pet’s age, health, lifestyle, and where you live.

We hope we answered some of your questions about pet vaccinations. Speak to your regular veterinarian about keeping your pet protected from preventable diseases.

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we want you to have the information you need to make decisions about your pet’s care. From helpful resources for pet owners to specialty veterinary services, we are here to enhance your life with your pet. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call (248) 334-6877.