Vaccines are an easy and cost-effective way to protect not only your pets but other pets in your community. In some cases, your pet’s vaccines also protect you. Although pet vaccines have been around since 1879, there are still many misconceptions about them. Magruder Tabb Animal Clinic in Yorktown, VA looks at the facts about vaccines for pets.
Are Vaccines Legally Required?
The only legally required vaccine in the state of Virginia is the rabies vaccine. All dogs and cats over four months old have to get it. This is because rabies can jump from pets to people. There is no cure for rabies in either people or pets, and it is usually fatal. Fines and court costs for not giving your dog or cat a rabies vaccine are far more than the cost of the vaccine.
Are Vaccines Required Anywhere Else?
If you want to show your pet, go to a pet hotel with your pet or put your pet in a boarding facility, you have to show proof that your pet is up to date with his or her vaccinations. Many dog parks also require that all dogs be vaccinated before they are allowed access.
What Are the Different Kinds of Vaccines?
Vaccines from a VA veterinary clinic are divided into two main types. The first type is called a core vaccine, or a vaccine that your pet has to have to travel or go to shows since there is such a high risk of getting it from other pets. The second type is called a non-core vaccine. This is a vaccine recommended by an animal hospital depending on the pet’s lifestyle and the prevalence of a disease in your area.
How Old Do Pets Have To Be To Get Vaccinated?
As long as they are healthy, puppies and kittens can start their vaccinations between six and eight weeks old. Only some vaccines can be given at that time. Some have to wait until the puppy or kitten is a little older.
What Are the Side Effects of Vaccines?
Side effects of vaccines are very rare. When they do happen, they range from being sleepy for a day to going into shock. When you bring your pet in for vaccines for the first time, it’s best to stay for about 20 minutes in the waiting room to ensure that your pet does not go into shock. This way, should this rare event occur, your pet is right there at the animal hospital to get treatment.
Schedule an Appointment at Our Animal Hospital in Yorktown, VA
If you have further questions about how vaccines benefit your pet and live in the Yorktown, VA area, contact Magruder Tabb Animal Clinic today. Call us at (757) 865-6510 for more information on vaccines or to scheduel an appointment with our veterinary professionals.
