When injected at an animal clinic, vaccines trigger a protective immune response that effectively builds up antibodies to a specific pathogen. Thanks to this reaction, vaccinating your pet can sufficiently protect them from life-threatening and harmful diseases. That’s why the veterinarians at Tender Care Animal Hospital want to help residents in the Prairie Du Chien, WI, area fully vaccinate their pets. Pet owners should understand which shots are essential, so the experts put together this guide to help.

Dogs

Core vaccines are determined based on the pet’s risk of exposure and severity of the disease and if it can be transmitted to humans. For dogs, these include parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and rabies. You’ve likely heard of the latter; because rabies can be transmitted to humans and cause a widespread epidemic in nearby animals, most local governments strictly regulate the need for the vaccine. In addition to these core vaccines, your veterinarian will share whether they believe your dog might be at risk for other diseases, including Bordatella or Lyme. 

Cats

Like dogs, cats have their own set of core vaccines that should never be skipped. These include feline distemper, calicivirus, herpesvirus, and rabies. While cats are more likely to contract different diseases than dogs, their vaccinations are no less important. You should also discuss any other shots with your veterinarian that may be beneficial, based on your feline friend’s risk of exposure. These might include vaccines for leukemia, immunodeficiency, Bordetella, and Chlamydophila.

If you want to discuss vaccinating your pet, reach out to the veterinarians at Tender Care Animal Hospital. With more than 15 years of experience, they have made it their mission to provide honest and effective care throughout an animal’s life. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, reach out to a trusted team member by calling (608) 326-7101. You can also find frequently asked questions online.