At Shores Animal Hospital, we recommend that all pet owners consider and understand the benefits of vaccinations. Vaccines play a key role in helping fight off viruses and preventing disease. A vaccine is a small dose of the virus that will stimulate antibodies and help form an immunity against that specified illness. In the case of exposure, your pet will have the ability to fight off that virus. Vaccines prevent many dangerous, and sometimes, fatal diseases. To keep your pet free from disease, and to keep them from spreading disease to other pets in your community and to you as well, keeping them on a routine vaccination schedule is one of the most important steps you can take as a pet owner.
Here are a few more reasons why vaccinations are important for your pet:
Vaccinations are the best weapon against many viral and bacterial infections in pets.
Millions of dogs & cats have been saved by vaccines.
Vaccines are safe and well-tolerated by most pets.
Vaccines help your pet live a longer, healthier and happier life.
Rabies vaccination is required by Florida state law.
Vaccinating your pet while their immune system is still young and developing will give your pet the protection it needs to stay healthy. Keeping up to date with your pet’s annual/scheduled vaccines is vital to their health and even the health of other pets and people in your community.
Pet Vaccinations - What to Expect
During an appointment, our veterinarians will provide you with vaccine education, discussing topics like scheduling booster shots, the importance of returning annually, your pet's history, lifestyle, prevalence of disease in Florida, your travel plans and dog park protocol.
Required and Recommended Vaccines for Dogs
Vaccines required or recommended for the majority of dogs include (not all-inclusive):
- Rabies - Rabies vaccination is required by Florida state law.
- Canine distemper
- Canine parvo
- Canine leptospirosis
- Canine hepatitis
- Parainfluenza
- Bordetella “Kennel Cough”
- Canine Influenza “Canine Flu”
Vaccines required or recommended for majority of cats include (not all-inclusive):
- Rabies - Rabies vaccination is required by state law.
- Feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia (FVRCP) – Feline Herpes 1
- Feline leukemia
- Feline pneumonitis (chlamydia)
- Bordetella “Kennel Cough”
Shores Animal Hospital, located in Gainesville, Florida, can help with your pet’s vaccinations. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
