Part of responsible pet ownership is vaccinating your animals to help prevent diseases that can shorten their lives. Even if your pet stays indoors, it’s important to see your Holmen veterinarian for routine shots and care. For more information on pet vaccinations, contact the Van Loon Animal Hospital.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Pet vaccinations work the same way they do in humans. A small amount of the dead virus is injected into the body, which produces an immune response. This immune response allows the body to produce antibodies that prevent infection from the disease after exposure at a future date. Without a vaccine, the body has a difficult time fighting off the disease and it can cause extreme illness and even death.
When to Have Your Pet Vaccinated
Vaccinations usually begin on a healthy pet when they are around six to eight weeks old and continue every three to four weeks until they are four months old. Your pet will then receive a booster every year to every three years depending on the brand and type of vaccine. These vaccinations consist of core vaccines, vaccines that are recommended for all pets, and non-core vaccines, those that vary depending on your pet’s lifestyle and where you live. Your Holmen veterinarian can go over the list of vaccines and make recommendations on ones that are needed and when.
Are Their Risks?
Most pets respond well to vaccination, but like any medical procedure, there may be a slight amount of risk involved. The most common reaction is a slight fever, reduced appetite and tenderness at the site of the injection. These reactions usually resolve themselves within a few days.