Vaccinating your Pets
By Daniela Svensson - Student Veterinary Nurse.
What are Vaccinations?
Vaccinations are preparations containing killed or modified microorganisms that are intended for administration to animals. Upon introduction, the immune system responds to the vaccine, which gets the body ready for any encounters with the targeted microorganism, the animal can fight off viruses, infectious agents and bacteria that could cause illness in the future upon exposure. It is crucial to vaccinate your pet yearly whether they are inside or outside to allow protection. It is important to remember that vaccinations are not 100% effective.
Core vaccinations are universally recommended for all animals, while non-core vaccines are tailored to specific environmental and lifestyle factors. It is always very important to remember that even if we vaccinate our pets they can still contract viruses, bacteria and diseases.
Booster doses are often necessary to strengthen and prolong the protective immune response.
What should one observe after vaccination?
Like humans, animals sometimes get side effects from vaccinations. These symptoms include;
Fever
No Appetite
Nausea
Lethargy
Pain or tenderness at the site of the injection or a small bump at the site of infection.
Sneezing or coughing after intranasal vaccine.
Sometimes our pets may have an allergic reaction to a vaccine which can occur straight away or a few hours later. Reactions are rare but can also be life-threatening. It is recommended to contact your veterinarian straight away if you notice any of the following signs;
Collapsing/Fainting.
Vomiting or diarrhoea occurring more than once.
Breathing difficulties.
Swelling around the body.
Red itchy bumps spread out over the body, these are known as hives.
How are vaccinations given?
Some are given through the nose (intranasal) in the form of drops, others are given subcutaneously (under the skin) and also intramuscular (into the muscle) with a needle.
Why is it important to have my pet vaccinated?
It is extremely important to vaccinate our pets to keep them healthy and protected against deadly diseases, viruses and bacteria. It is important to vaccinate your pet even if they are kept inside.
Stress can make a vaccination ineffective so it is advised to keep your pet calm before your appointment. Vaccinating your pets from the comfort of your home reduces the risks of stress for both you and your animal.
Why do Kittens and Puppies need multiple vaccinations?
Kittens and Puppies are given multiple vaccinations because of their weakened immune system. In the womb, they receive antibodies from their mothers’ milk that protect them against bacteria and viruses. When they are born they need help to boost their immune systems just like humans do! Maternal antibodies diminish with time, so we must help and protect them!
Once your puppy or kitten is six to eight weeks old they receive the primary course followed by the secondary course 2-4 weeks apart. Your vet will always guide you and provide the most suitable option for your pet.
It is recommended to wait two weeks after the second vaccination to take your animal outside to ensure optimal immunisation has taken place.
Once your kitten or puppy has received all its doses it will only require booster vaccinations yearly.
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