If you're in the Annapolis, MD area and are looking for a kind and compassionate veterinarian near you, you've come to the right place. Annapolis Veterinary and Wellness offer comprehensive annual exams that include ensuring your pet has all the vaccinations necessary to stay safe from communicable diseases. Our veterinarian will make sure your pet is kept up to date on their shots and communicate reminders in whatever format you like. If you'd like to learn more about vaccinations, keep reading for some useful information.
Why Are Vaccinations Important?
Vaccines are an important part of your pet's preventative care routine because they will keep them from contracting potentially fatal diseases from other animals and areas that have been contaminated by infected wildlife. They help your pet build immunity by way of antibodies. That's why getting your pet vaccinated early (around 2 months) is vital. They'll still have antibodies in their system from their mother's milk. Vaccines will help stimulate those antibodies and keep your pet healthy. Many vaccines, like rabies, are required by law. Others are needed if you plan to board your pet or send them to daycare.
What Vaccines Does My Pet Need?
Both cats and dogs will need a series of core vaccinations between 6–8 weeks of age. Vaccines include:
Dogs
- Canine parvovirus
- Distemper
- Canine hepatitis
- Rabies
- Bordetella
- Leptospira
Cats
- Panleukopenia
- Herpesvirus
- Rabies
- Bordetella
- Feline leukemia
- Chlamydophila
- FIV
While some vaccines are not mandatory (like Bordetella and FIV), they are strongly recommended, especially if your pet goes outside and is around other cats and dogs. After their initial set of vaccines at about 6–8 weeks, your pet will need follow-up vaccine boosters every 3–4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. The exception is the rabies vaccine, which is only given at 16 weeks. After that, your vet will advise you as to your pets' vaccine schedule based on their needs. Usually, shots are given either once a year or every 3 years.
Are There Side Effects To Vaccinations?
Following a vaccination, it's not uncommon for your pet to have some minor side effects like:
- Tiredness
- Lack of appetite
- Soreness around the injection site
- Mild fever
- Some vomiting and diarrhea
- Lump at the injection site
These symptoms should subside within a day or two. If your pet does not improve, contact your vet.
Contact Our Animal Hospital in Annapolis, MD
At Annapolis Veterinary and Wellness, we make pet safety and health our top priority. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us or visit our website for more information.