Vaccinations are a crucial part of maintaining your pet’s health. They help prevent serious diseases and keep our furry friends happy and healthy. Here’s a look at some of the most common vaccines for dogs and cats and what they protect against:

Canine Vaccines

Rabies

  • What It Protects Against: Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal. It can be transmitted to humans through bites from infected animals.
  • Why It’s Important: Rabies vaccination is required by law in many areas and is crucial for protecting both your pet and the community.

Leptospirosis (Lepto)

  • What It Protects Against: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can cause kidney and liver damage. It can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil.
  • Why It’s Important: Lepto vaccination is especially recommended in areas where the disease is common or if your dog has a high risk of exposure. Lepto infections are very common in the Pacific Northwest.

DAPP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza)

  • What It Protects Against:
    • Distemper: A viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
    • Adenovirus: Causes hepatitis (liver disease)
    • Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus causing severe gastrointestinal issues.
    • Parainfluenza: Contributes to kennel cough and respiratory infections.
  • Why It’s Important: This combination vaccine is essential for protecting against several serious and potentially fatal diseases.

Bordetella

  • What It Protects Against: Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that causes kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection.
  • Why It’s Important: Recommended for all dogs – especially those frequently in contact with other dogs, such as in boarding facilities or dog parks.

Feline Vaccines

Rabies

  • What It Protects Against: Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal. It can be transmitted to humans through bites from infected animals.
  • Why It’s Important: Rabies vaccination is required by law in many areas and is crucial for protecting both your pet and the community.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

  • What It Protects Against: FeLV is a viral infection that can lead to cancer and other severe health issues.
  • Why It’s Important: FeLV vaccination is especially recommended for cats that go outdoors or live in multi-cat households where they might be exposed.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calcivirus, and Panleukopenia (Feline Triple)

  • What It Protects Against:
    • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis: FVR is caused by the feline herpesvirus and leads to upper respiratory infections.
    • Calicivirus: Calicivirus causes upper respiratory infections and oral disease in cats.
    • Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): Panleukopenia is a severe, often fatal disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract and immune system.
  • Why It’s Important: This combination vaccine is essential for protecting cats from deadly diseases.
Vaccinations play a key role in preventing serious and sometimes fatal diseases in pets. Regular veterinary check-ups and keeping your pets up-to-date with their vaccines are essential for their health and well-being. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best vaccination schedule for your furry friend based on their age, lifestyle, and risk factors.