Cat and Dog Vaccinations in Columbus
Whether your fur baby is a dog or cat, or maybe you have one of each, you want them to be healthy and protected from diseases. We want the same thing for all of our patients here at River Road Animal Clinic. Bringing your pet in for a comprehensive exam is one of the best ways to keep them healthy, but it’s only the first step. Vaccinating your pet should be the next step. Just like human vaccines, cat and dog vaccines help protect pets from viruses and diseases by strengthening their immune system. This is why it’s so important that pet vaccinations be part of every dog’s and cat’s preventive healthcare plan. We offer both core and non-core vaccines for our canine and feline patients here in Columbus, allowing us to accommodate every lifestyle.
Is your cat or dog due for vaccinations? Call us at 706-327-8329 to book an appointment!
How Cat and Dog Vaccines Prevent Disease
Vaccines contain antigens, which are foreign substances in the body that mimic a virus or disease. When these antigens are introduced to the body, they stimulate a response from the immune system, causing antibodies to be created. The immune system is then strengthened as a result. If a pet ever encounters the real illness for which it was vaccinated, its body will be able to recognize it and fight it off. However, the antibodies only last 1-3 years, so dog and cat vaccines need to be updated regularly if you want your pet to stay protected.
The Difference Between Core and Non-Core
No two pets are exactly alike. You might have a pit bull that spends a lot of time outside or a litter-trained teacup Yorkie that stays indoors. Core and non-core dog and cat vaccines help veterinarians accommodate these differing lifestyles. Core vaccines are essential for the health of all dogs and cats, regardless of their lifestyle. Non-core vaccines are recommended only if a pet has a high risk of exposure to a certain illness (Bordetella, feline leukemia, etc.).
The following are the core vaccines that we recommend for dogs and cats:
For Cats:
- Rabies (1- and 3-year options available)
- FVRCP, which prevents:
- Feline rhinotracheitis virus (feline herpesvirus 1)
- Calicivirus
- Panleukopenia (distemper)
- Feline leukemia (FeLV)
For Dogs:
- Rabies (1- and 3-year options available)
- DHPPV/distemper parvovirus
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Canine influenza
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme disease
- Snake bite vaccine
Call us at 706-327-8329 to book your cat or dog’s vaccinations appointment!