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why you should keep your pet updated on immunizations

The Importance of Immunizations

Both cats and dogs are at risk of contracting diseases that affect their quality of life and can be deadly if they are not vaccinated. All these diseases can be transmitted by the mother or other infected animals. Cats are susceptible to diseases like FIV if they get bitten by an infected cat or through their mother’s milk. Parvovirus and kennel cough are two canine-specific diseases that spread when puppies or adult dogs are kept in close quarters with an infected individual. All mammals can contract rabies and can also transmit the disease to humans.

Immunization helps stop the spread of these diseases and keep everyone healthy. When you bring your kitten or puppy to our veterinarians will administer species-appropriate vaccines to give them a solid start in life.

Vaccines for Puppies and Kittens

Getting a new puppy or kitten is extremely exciting! Puppies and kittens should start their immunization process when they are 6 to 8 weeks old. Both species receive core vaccines that protect against the most common and dangerous diseases they can contract. The necessary vaccines for kittens and puppies are:

Kitten Vaccines

  • Panleukopenia AKA feline distemper
  • Feline calicivirus
  • Feline viral rhinotracheitis
  • Rabies
  • Feline chlamydiosis
  • Feline Leukemia Virus

Puppy Vaccines

  • Canine parvovirus
  • Canine hepatitis
  • Distemper
  • Rabies
  • Leptospirosis
  • Parainfluenza
  • Bordetella

Other vaccinations may be available depending upon where you live and your pet’s individual risk factors. You can discuss the intended lifestyle for your pet with our veterinarians and decide which additional vaccines are appropriate.  

Vaccinations for puppies include protection against diseases they are likely to encounter when they are outdoors.  

Following Up with Booster Shots 

For vaccines to be most effective, you need to bring your kitten and puppy to the veterinarian for booster vaccines. Boosters support the pet’s health as the maternal antibodies leave their immune system. If you are in the Santa Clarita area, please make sure to give us a call at 661-254-2000 and ask questions about which vaccines are right for your pet.