Vaccinations have saved the lives of countless animals in Navarre, FL since they first started being administered.

As such, they now form an essential part of any pet's preventive medical care and can stop the spread of widespread disease amongst the animal population. Thanks to effective vaccination use, animals that would previously have succumbed to infectious diseases are now able to live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

How Do Vaccines Work?

Pet vaccinations in Navarre, FL work in exactly the same way human vaccines do. When your pet is vaccinated against a specific disease, a little of the disease-causing organism is introduced into your pet. However, this organism has been modified so that while it will still stimulate your pet's immune system, to generate a protective response, it won't actually cause any harm. In addition to this, the vaccine will induce the production of memory cells in the immune system which will enable it to recognize key characteristics of the actual disease and fight it before it can have a serious effect on your pet.

Unfortunately, vaccines aren't effective forever and how long your pet will be protected will depend on a number of factors including her immune system. As such, booster vaccines are normally administered on a fairly regular schedule of between 1-3 years depending on the recommendation of your vet. It is important that these are carried out on time, otherwise, your pet could be left vulnerable to illness and disease.

With many different vaccines to choose from, it can seem like a minefield knowing which ones are both suitable and necessary for your pet. Fortunately, all qualified veterinarians are trained to know which vaccines are suitable for which pets and will be able to advise you which your precious pet needs to keep her safe from harm.

Vaccinations are normally split into two categories. These are 'core' and 'non-core' vaccines.

Core Vaccinations that Your Dog Must Have

Core vaccinations that the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) consider essential for all dogs irrespective of their age, breed, and location include:

• Canine distemper
• Canine parvovirus
• Canine hepatitis
• Rabies

Non-Core Vaccinations for Dogs

In addition to the core vaccinations listed above, there are a number of others that may be potentially beneficial for your dog. These include:

• Leptospirosis
• Lyme disease
• Bordetella (kennel cough)
• Canine parainfluenza
• Coronavirus

If your veterinarian believes that any of the above vaccinations would be particularly beneficial for your dog, they will of course be recommended and, with your agreement, added to his normal vaccination schedule.

Core Vaccinations that Your Cat Must Have

Core vaccinations that the AAHA consider to be essential for all cats regardless of their breed, age and location include the following:

• Feline calicivirus
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis
• Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
• Rabies

Non-Core Vaccinations for Cats

In addition to these core vaccinations, your vet may also recommend any of the following for your feline based on her individual circumstances. These include:

• Chlamydia
• Feline leukemia
• Bordetella (kennel cough)

Again, if your veterinarian feels that these would be beneficial, the immunizations will be added to your pet's usual vaccination schedule.

If you would like more help and advice on which pet vaccines are absolutely necessary for your beloved furbaby, please call (850) 939-6080 to get in touch with our experienced veterinarians in Navarre, FL today.