Vaccinations provide protection to our pets from a number of different diseases. Vaccination programs in Australia have dramatically reduced the chances of our animals contracting some very serious and potentially fatal diseases. However, we do still see cases of these diseases so it is important to keep vaccinations up to date.
Dogs are routinely vaccinated for Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and Bordetella (C5 vaccination). These can all be fatal diseases and are very unpleasant for the animals affected. Distemper affects the nervous system, hepatitis the liver, and parvovirus the gastrointestinal system. C5 vaccination is mandatory if your dog will be attending a boarding kennel, and recommended if they are visiting public spaces and mixing with other dogs, for example through dog training, grooming parlours or recreational facilities and dog parks.
Cats are routinely vaccinated for Rhinotracheitis, Calici virus and Panleukopaenia virus (F3 Vaccination). The rhinotracheitis and calicivirus are forms of cat flu, and panleukopaenia affects the gastrointestinal tract or the brain of young kittens.
FIV vaccination will be discussed for kittens in particular, or young adult cats. FIV is the cause of feline AIDS (9-26% prevalence in Victoria), and vaccination is recommended for outdoor cats who are more likely to be involved in fights with another cat (or indoor cats with a housemate who is FIV positive).
What happens during a vaccination?
All vaccinations include a comprehensive check-up with one of our veterinarians. We check the patient from nose to tail, and this is just as important as the vaccination as we assess your pets general health. Your vet will often pick up problems which aren’t obvious externally, such as heart issues. The injection is very quick with a small needle, and the many patients don’t notice it at all. We always invite you to raise any concerns or questions you have had about your pet including preventative health care such as flea control, ongoing medical issues or medications, and behaviour.
How many vaccinations does your pet need to have?
Adult dogs and cats are generally vaccinated annually to maintain their immunity.
Puppies and kittens undergo a course of 3 vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age, 10-12 weeks of age, and 14-16 weeks of age.
Organising the vaccination:
Please call reception on 5461 4466 to book an appointment for your pet’s vaccination. We will do our best to accommodate the day and time which suits you best. Please be aware you may need to plan ahead if you need a particular time of day, or if you are bringing multiple pets in at once.
After your pet has been vaccinated by us, we will automatically send a reminder in a year’s time, when the next one is due.
