There’s no better—or easier—way to keep your pet healthy and safe from infectious diseases than by having them vaccinated regularly. If you have a new puppy or kitten, it’s imperative that they receive their first booster vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age to build their immunity. Cat and dog vaccinations are an essential part of any companion animal’s lifelong healthcare regimen. Here at Grand Rapids Vet Clinic, we will work closely with you to determine the appropriate vaccines for your pet’s wellness needs.
CAT AND DOG VACCINATIONS WE OFFER
We offer a full array of vaccines to suit the individual lifestyle requirements of each individual pet. During your pet’s wellness visit, we’ll discuss their lifestyle to find out which diseases they are most at risk of contracting from their environment. Other factors that determine which vaccines your pet will receive are size, weight, whether they are going to be boarded and/or groomed, and frequency of travel. Cat and dog vaccines we offer include:
Dogs:
- Rabies (required by law)
- Distemper
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Canine influenza
Cats:
- Rabies (required by law)
- Feline distemper
- Leukemia (recommended for outdoor cats)
Your cat or dog’s vaccination protocol will likely change over time, due to circumstances associated with aging. Bordetella is required for pets that will be boarding, visiting the groomer, or going to the dog park. The leptospirosis vaccine is strongly recommended for pets that live in areas that see a lot of wildlife, especially raccoons and deer. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals. Soil and puddles of standing water also houses the leptospira bacteria.
WHY CAT AND DOG VACCINES ARE IMPORTANT
Cat and dog vaccinations are the most convenient and effective method for protecting our companions from becoming infected with harmful diseases. Thanks to vaccines, our pets are living longer, healthier lives than ever. Like people, dogs and cats can be vulnerable to various pathogens, especially if they spend much of their time outdoors. Ask your veterinarian what vaccines your pet needs, and find out how frequently they need to be re-vaccinated. Your pet relies on you to keep them safe and healthy, so be sure to schedule their cat or dog vaccinations with us if they are overdue.