Vaccines provide protection form a variety of diseased so you pet neither gets nor gives the infection. Most kennels will require distemper and rabies vaccines for dogs and cats. In addition, Bordetella is oftern required for dogs, and sometimes leukemia for cats. Here’s a look at the components of vaccines. Many vaccine protocols are now beginning to change. Talk with your veterinarian about your concerns of each disease and of vaccinating yearly.
Canine distemper vaccine-this is really a composite of several diseases. Depending on the combination your vet uses, it may include some or all of the following:
Distemper
Canine hepatitis
Leptospirosis
Parainfluenza
Parvo virus
Corona virus
Bordatella vaccines add additional protection against coughing viruses, and are boostered every 6 months to 1 year.
Feline distemper vaccine-this is a composite, containing mostly upper respiratory diseases, since that is what cats are most susceptible to:
Panleukopenia
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
Calici
Pnuemonitis
Other cat vaccines include Feline Leukemia and Feline Infectious Peritonitis. Your veterinarian can tell you if your cat will need these additional vaccines.
Puppies and kittens receive several vaccines over a period of weeks when young. This is to protect them as their mother’s immunity slowly wears away. Traditionally dogs and cats receive boosters on a yearly basis following the initial series. Rabies vaccines are required by law for pets. They are usually given between 4 and 6 months of age, and then boostered. Depending on state law, boosters may be yearly, every other year, or even every 3 years.
Most reputable kennels require proof of vaccination before your pet can board with them. This is not only for the protection of your pet but for the protection of other pets in the kennel’s care. Without adequate vaccination the kennel may not allow your pet to board in its facility.
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