Spring Alert
whether you have felines, canines, or exotics!
Some people are not aware of the need for yearly vaccinations for our pets. Even exotic pets require a yearly check up and distemper combination shot. If you have an exotic cat or hybrid, make sure your vet uses only KILLED vaccines, felo-vac, by Fort Dodge Labs. It is pink and a "killed" vaccine. Exotics are very sensitive to vaccines and modified live vaccines can give your feline the disease you are trying to prevent!
Domestic cats can use modified live or killed. Vaccines with FeLV is a personal decision. I always suggest asking questions, discussing it with your vet and checking other sources before making a final decision. Killed vaccines are proven. Some modified live vaccines are too new for all the info to be in on them long term.
If your pet is in a high risk situation or environment, ex. goes in and out or is outside then vaccinations are a MUST.
Adult canines require a yearly check up and Distemper combination shot. It is recommended that they receive heartworm tests and preventatives EACH spring, BEFORE the mosquito season starts. Vaccinations for Lyme Disease, if needed are also given in the spring, to allow for the best immunity.
Rabies vaccinations are given once every 3 yrs., once the dog is more than a yr. old. Puppies begin their shots at 6 to 8 wks. of age, and continue at 3 to 4 wk intervals until 16 wks of age. When the last distemper shot is given, a one yr. Rabies vaccine is also given.
Kittens begin their shots at 6 to 8 wks. of age and continue at 3 to 4 wks intervals, like the puppies until 16 wks. of age. At the 12 and 16 wk shots, a Feline Leukemia shot can also be given, IF necessary or if kitten/cat is at high risk, or has been exposed directly to a cat that is FeLV positive.
When the last Distemper vaccination is given to the kitten, a one yr. rabies shot can also be given. Many states are now MANDATORY Rabies control areas.
The health of our pet rests solely in the hands of the owner! Don't forget to take your pet for a check up now that spring is here.
There is also a new vaccine out for humans for Lyme Disease. Call your primary care physician and ask for details.