Vaccinations - Vet in Bellingham | Village Veterinary Hospital

Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

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Vaccinations are a relatively inexpensive but essential way to prevent many illnesses and diseases that can be life-threatening and may even be zoonotic, meaning they can be passed to humans. Even pets who live primarily indoors should be vaccinated, as they can still be exposed to disease.

Vaccines

While any medical treatment involves some degree of risk, in the case of vaccinations the benefits far outweigh any potential side effects. Adverse reactions are rare and usually mild and short-term when they do occur. At Village Veterinary Hospital, we follow the guidelines set by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and AAHA (the American Animal Hospital Association) on what frequency vaccines should be given based on actual data and proven immunity.

Core vs. Non-Core

Which vaccines should your pet have? “Core” vaccines are those recommended—and possibly mandated by law—for most pets. Core vaccines include:

Rabies (dogs and cats)
Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus 2, Parvo and Parainfluenza (dogs)
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (cats)

Other non-core, but highly suggested vaccinations for cats include FIV for feline immunodeficiency virus and FeLV to protect against feline leukemia.

For dogs, bordetella is recommended if they frequent dog parks, boarding kennels, or any place where they’re socializing with other canines.

You might also talk to your veterinarian about a leptospirosis vaccine if your dog is like so many in our area that go on hikes into rural areas or spend a lot of time outdoors where there’s wildlife.

We can advise you on which vaccinations are required or recommended for your pet based on age, health, and lifestyle—for questions or to schedule an appointment, request a visit online or call us at (360) 647-1980.

Vaccines For Life

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