The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pets

When you have pets it is your responsibility to keep them safe. If you live in or around Fernandina Beach, contact our veterinarian at Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare to discuss pet vaccinations. We will make sure your pets are up-to-date on whatever shots are needed. Proper veterinary care and regular vaccinations are both essential to maintaining the health of your pets.

The Benefits of Pet Vaccines 

Vaccinating your pets shields them from diseases that could result in their deaths. It can even strengthen their immune system so they are less susceptible to certain diseases. What you may not realize though, is that having your pet vaccinated may protect you too. There are some diseases that your pets could inadvertently pass on to you, including Leptospirosis. 

When Vaccines Are Needed

The schedule to have your pets vaccinated is determined by their breed and ages. For example, puppies and kittens get their first vaccines when they are eight weeks old. But if you have a rabbit, he or she can be first vaccinated at five weeks old. If you don't get your pet until it is an adult, you may have to start vaccinating your pet as if it was a baby. This is generally the recommended course of action if you don't know a pet's medical history. Once your pet starts getting its shots, some of those shots need to be administered every year. 

Which Vaccines Are Needed

Different pets need different vaccines. Dogs, cats, and ferrets all need to get rabies shots, in addition to others. This is especially important for any pets that go outside. Without proper vaccinations, they may catch rabies from various types of wildlife. Also, dogs need hepatitis vaccines, while cats need vaccines for herpesvirus type 1 and panleukopenia. 

Contact Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare

Call Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare Fernandina Beach, FL, today at (904) 310-9990 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, Dr. Branch. He will provide a thorough examination and set up a vaccination schedule based on the health of your pet. Vaccinations are essential to keeping your furry friends happy and healthy for years to come.