To help pet owners learn more about vaccines and their importance, August has been designated National Immunization Awareness Month. Pet vaccinations play a critical role in preventative medicine for animal companions. However, many dog and cat parents aren’t sure which vaccines to get or when they should be administered. To make the right health decisions for your pet, learn more about vaccines with these common questions veterinarians receive.

What to Know About Pet Vaccinations

Why should I have my pet vaccinated?

Pet vaccinations protect animals from potentially life-threatening diseases. When your dog or cat receives a vaccine, their immune system will develop antibodies that fight off the illness if they become exposed to it. This will reduce the risk of your pet contracting the disease and help minimize the symptoms they experience if they do get it. It can also prevent your animal from spreading the sickness to another.

What are the core vaccines for cats and dogs?

Pet vaccinations are divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are those that the American Veterinary Medical Association has recommended every dog or cat receive. They’re designed to safeguard pets against especially contagious and dangerous health conditions.

For dogs, core immunizations include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and canine hepatitis. Cats should be immunized against rabies, distemper, calicivirus, and herpes.

Are there any side effects?

Because vaccinations stimulate your pet’s immune system, they may exhibit mild symptoms of an illness, such as fever. The most common side effect is tenderness at the injection site. In general, immunizations are safe and will keep your dog or cat from developing a much more serious medical problem.

How often should my pet get vaccinated?

Every animal’s immunization schedule will be different depending on their age, medical history, lifestyle, environment, and the type of vaccine being administered. Typically, puppies and kittens need their first vaccines between six and 16 weeks old. Then they’ll get boosters every one to three years.

If you’re seeking a trusted veterinarian on the island of Oahu to help keep your dog or cat healthy with vaccines, look to Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic. The highly trained staff is qualified to administer all types of pet vaccinations and will determine an immunization schedule best suited to your animal. For nearly 30 years, they’ve upheld an excellent standard of pet care. Call (808) 625-6744 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.