National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month!

It’s a great time to talk about why vaccines are important for your pets and to make sure they are on track with their vaccination schedules.

Why are vaccines important?

Vaccines protect against common diseases that your pet may become exposed to. In fact, vaccines have about a 95% success rate for preventing infections and fatal diseases! 

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines contain some or all of the inactive proteins from pathogens that cause infectious diseases. When your pet is vaccinated, their immune system recognizes the pathogen from these inactive proteins. If your pet is exposed to the disease, their immune system is equipped to fight back against it, significantly limiting or preventing your pet from illness.

What vaccines will my pet need?

Rabies (Cat & Dog): required by law and protects against fatal illness. Rabies can be transmitted to other pets and people through the bite of an infected animal. 

Distemper/Parvo (FVRCP/DA2PP/DHPP)  (Cat & Dog): protects against viruses that cause life-threatening neurologic, respiratory, and gastrointestinal issues. 

Lifestyle Vaccines (Cat & Dog): recommended if your dog visits boarding facilities, groomers, training classes, dog parks, and other social settings and is given to all outdoor cats, including those who go out occasionally, even if it’s just on an open porch. 

Leptospirosis (Dog only): protects against bacteria that can cause deadly kidney or liver disease. Wildlife can spread this disease and it is highly prevalent in multiple areas of the country. Leptospirosis is also transmissible to people.

Lyme (Dog only): prevents Lyme disease, which is easily transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Along with this vaccine, the use of flea/tick preventatives helps reduce the chance of contracting Lyme disease.

Bordetella (Dog only): protects against a highly contagious upper respiratory virus (commonly referred to as Kennel Cough) spread through airborne droplets, direct contact, and surfaces.  

Canine Influenza (Dog only): protects against newer strains of influenza. New strains have developed since the early 2000's, resulting in a highly contagious form that infects dogs and rarely cats. It has become more common in recent years and can result in symptoms that range from a cough with fever to death.

Feline Leukemia (Cat only): protects against contagious and often fatal diseases easily spread between cats.

Vaccines are the key to a long and healthy life.   Call us today with any questions about your pet’s vaccinations or to schedule your pet’s vaccine appointment.

 Clarendon Hills  (630) 323-5500  |   Western Springs (708) 246-6462