How Cat and Dog Vaccines Help Protect Pets
Vaccines prepare your pet’s immune system to recognize and respond to specific diseases. They contain components that mimic certain viruses or bacteria without causing the illness itself. This helps the immune system create a protective response, so your pet’s body is better prepared if they are exposed in the future.
Many pet vaccines need to be updated every one to three years, depending on the vaccine, your pet’s age, local regulations, and their individual risk factors. Keeping your dog or cat current on vaccines supports long-term health and helps protect other pets in the community, too.
Core and Lifestyle-Based Vaccines for Dogs and Cats
Not every pet needs the exact same vaccine plan. Some vaccines are considered core because they are recommended for most dogs or cats. Others are lifestyle-based and may be recommended if your pet has a higher risk of exposure through boarding, grooming, travel, outdoor activity, or contact with other animals.
At River Road Animal Clinic, we’ll help you understand which vaccines make sense for your pet and why.
Cat Vaccines
Common vaccines recommended for cats may include:
-
Rabies
-
FVRCP, which helps protect against:
-
Feline rhinotracheitis virus
-
Calicivirus
-
Panleukopenia
-
Feline leukemia, which may be recommended for cats with outdoor access or other exposure risks
Dog Vaccines
Common vaccines recommended for dogs may include:
-
Rabies
-
DHPPV, also known as distemper-parvovirus
-
Bordetella
-
Canine influenza
-
Leptospirosis
-
Lyme disease
-
Snake bite vaccine
When Does Your Pet Need Vaccines?
Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines during their first months of life to build early protection. Adult dogs and cats need booster vaccines on a routine schedule to maintain immunity. Senior pets may still need vaccines, too, although recommendations may change based on their health, lifestyle, and medical history.
If you are unsure whether your pet is overdue, our team can review their records and help you get back on schedule.
Schedule Cat and Dog Vaccinations in Columbus, GA
If your dog or cat is due for vaccines, River Road Animal Clinic is here to help keep their preventive care on track. Call 706-327-8329 today to schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment in Columbus, GA.