Vaccinating your pet is a relatively inexpensive but essential way to protect his or her health. In addition to preventing many life-threatening illnesses, vaccinations can protect against diseases prevalent in wildlife and those that can be transmitted to humans. It’s important to administer vaccinations when pets are puppies and kittens because their young immune systems are still developing and need protection to stay healthy. 

While any medical treatment involves some degree of risk, the benefits of vaccinations far outweigh any potential side effects. Adverse reactions are rare and, when they do occur, usually mild and short-term.

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)
• DA2PPV – Distemper, Hepatitis, Adenovirus 2, Parvo and Parainfluenza (dogs)
• FVRCP – Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (cats)

Other non-core but highly recommended vaccinations for cats include FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) and FeLV (feline leukemia virus) to protect against feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia, respectively. For dogs, Bordetella and canine influenza shots are recommended if they frequent dog parks, boarding kennels, or any place where they’re socializing with other canines.

It’s also important to note that even pets who live primarily indoors should be vaccinated, as they can still be exposed to disease. Your Hayward Veterinary Hospital veterinarian can advise you on which vaccinations are required or recommended for your pet based on your pet’s age, health, and lifestyle. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 510-200-7280.