Vaccinations

Vaccinations

Vaccines protect cats and dogs from a variety of viral and bacterial infections which they may be exposed to. Our veterinarians will work with you to set up a vaccination program that is personalized for your pet to protect them from diseases that are prevalent in your area. To ensure that kittens and puppies are fully protected against infections, they often require an initial immunization followed by booster shots.

Here’s how it works: vaccines contain antigens, which are structurally similar to disease-causing organisms. These antigens stimulate your pet’s immune system, prompting a mild immune response. That means if your pet is exposed to the actual disease later in life, their immune system will be better prepared to recognize and fight off the intruder.

Some pet parents worry about the safety of vaccines for their pets, but most pets don’t experience any side effects. Possible side effects vary based on the vaccination, but they are often mild and may include fatigue, fever, and hives. Our veterinarians screen your pet thoroughly to ensure the vaccines are safe for them. Wellness exams are recommended annually for healthy adult pets and every six months for pets over the age of 9 years. These exams ensure we stay current on the vaccines your pet needs or adjust the vaccination schedule based on any changes in your pet. Pets may rarely have life-threatening reactions to vaccines, and in a majority of cases, the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the risks. Our veterinarians are ready to help create a vaccination schedule that fits your pet’s lifestyle and life stage so they aren’t under or over-vaccinated.