Why does my Kitten/Puppy need a Series of Vaccinations?

Initially your kitten or puppy needs a series of vaccinations.  The reason why a series is done is because newborn animals obtain immunity for protection against different diseases from their mother.  These maternal antibodies passed during nursing in the first hours of life wear off at different times leaving your pet susceptible to disease.  Because it’s impossible to pinpoint the exact time this immunity wears off, a series of vaccines given every 3-4 weeks is necessary to booster immunity.  Since we do know that the longest maternal antibodies can last is 16-20 weeks, your pet is considered protected for 1 year after the last vaccine given in this age range. 

My Pet was Vaccinated as a Puppy/Kitten. Does He/She Need Ongoing Vaccinations?

Vaccines are licensed based on the minimum duration of protection provided by the vaccine.  Currently, canine distemper /parvovirus and feline distemper and leukemia vaccines are only licensed for 1 year.  This means they must be done every year to booster immunity until further research is done to improve vaccine longevity and licensing information is changed. Rabies vaccines are required by North Carolina State law by 16 weeks of age.  In the state of North Carolina the first rabies vaccine is valid for one year and the following rabies vaccines given are valid for 3 years.

Vaccines In Dogs

Distemper/Parvo vaccine (DHLPP)- Given once a year.  Contains a combination of Distemper, Adenovirus- type 2 that causes Infectious Canine Hepatitis (liver disease), Leptospirosis (transmissible to humans), Parainfluenza (flu), and Parvovirus (Severe intestinal virus).

Rabies vaccine - Given every 3 years after initial 1 year vaccine. Required by law by 4 months of age. 

Bordetella (Kennel Cough vaccine): Given every 6 months. This vaccine protects against tracheobronchitis (kennel cough).  This is an airborne virus that your dog can acquire from other dogs in nearby areas or in kennels. 

Lyme Disease Vaccine- Lyme disease is nearly non-existent in our area. However if you travel to northern states with your dog, check with a local veterinarian in that area to see if your animal is at risk. If Lyme vaccination is required, a series of 2 vaccines are given initially 3 weeks apart and then once a year.

Vaccines in Cats

Feline Distemper (FVRCP):  Given on a yearly basis. This vaccine protects your cat against commonly encountered upper respiratory diseases (Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia).

Feline Leukemia (FELV): Given on a yearly basis.  Leukemia is transferred through saliva from cat to cat.  If your cat stays inside, doesn’t try to escape, and you are not the type of person to bring home stray animals, then you don’t have to vaccinate for leukemia.  All cats should be tested to ensure they don’t have leukemia before vaccinating for the first time.

Rabies Vaccine: Given every 3 years after initial 1 year vaccine. Required by law by 4 months of age.

Why Does My Indoor Pet Need Vaccinations?  

Although an indoor pet may have a low risk of getting diseases from other animals, vaccinations are important because infection is always a possibility. Some viruses can linger in the environment long after the animals that left them are no longer around. Viruses, such as parvo, may even be severe enough to cause death.

Rabies vaccination is required by law in every state in the U.S. The decision to vaccinate against other contagious diseases is one that each owner has to make on a case-by-case basis. But as a general rule, it is much easier and safer to prevent contagious illnesses than it is to treat them. At Preston Animal Hospital, we will work with you to develop an appropriate vaccine protocol for your pet. Also, pets age much more quickly than humans do. The wellness exams which accompany vaccine visits are of ultimate importance to help keep your pet healthy.

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