Canine Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccine – this is a mandatory vaccine. The State of Pennsylvania requires that all pets have a Rabies vaccine by the age of 12 weeks and that it is boostered in a timely manner, whether they are indoor or outdoor pets.
DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, Pararinfluenza) – This vaccine includes protection from several of the common and potentially life threatening viruses as well as a bacteria that dogs can be exposed to in the environment. It is considered a core vaccine.
Bordetella Vaccine – This is commonly called the Kennel Cough vaccine. This is an airborne pathogen that dogs are exposed to during nose-to-nose contact with another dog or in an environment where an infected dog as been recently such as a cage. We strongly recommend this vaccine for dogs who are going to be in a boarding facility, go to the groomer, puppy/training classes, or dog parks
Lyme Vaccine – Pennsylvania is ranked as one highest reported cases of Lyme disease in both dogs and people. Lyme disease is spread by the deer tick and in many cases the tick can be on and off the dog before we even realize it. Ticks are most commonly found in woods and high grasses, but they can also be on a blade of grass in your back yard. The Lyme vaccine we use is 92% effective when given in a timely manner. The first time a dog is vaccinated it is series of two vaccines 3-4 weeks apart, then given yearly thereafter. If the dog is older than 6 months we strongly advise a Lyme test first to be sure they don’t already have Lyme disease. If the test is positive, the dog will need to be treated with an antibiotic prior to receiving the vaccine. Lyme disease is generally non-life threatening and only approximately 20% of dogs with Lyme disease show clinical signs such as lethargy, joint pain, lack of appetite, limping, and a fever. In rare cases Lyme disease can cause acute kidney failure and sadly, this is almost always fatal. We strongly recommended the Lyme vaccine along with a monthly, topical flea and tick preventative such as the Seresto Collar, Vectra, or Revolution to keep your dog protected against Lyme disease.
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) – This is the Flu Vaccine for dogs. It is advised for dogs that are going to be in a boarding facility.
We offer many of our vaccinations as combination vaccines. This not only decreases the amount of injections your pet will receive in one visit, but also lowers the risk for vaccines reactions.
Feline Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccine – this is a mandatory vaccine. The State of Pennsylvania requires that all pets have a Rabies vaccine by the age of 12 weeks and that it is boostered in a timely manner whether they are indoor or outdoor pets.
FVRCP/Leuk (Rhinotracheitis (herpes virus), Calicivius, Panleukopenia, Leukemia) -This vaccine includes protection from several of the common and potentially life threatening viruses that cats can be exposed to in the environment. It is considered a core vaccine.
Leukemia – If your pet received a 3 Year FVRCP he/she may only need a leukemia vaccine which is performed yearly.
What to expect after your Pet’s Vaccinations
Congratulations! By vaccinating your pet, you have taken an important step toward protecting your pet and your family.
Vaccination is the most common veterinary preventative measure. It is a safe and effective way to protect pets and people form serious disease.
It is common for your pet to experience mild side effects from vaccination, but this means the vaccine is working! Typically starting with house of vaccination, clinical signs are most often mild and usually do not persist for more than a few days. Think of how your arm feels after a Tetanus shot. This is a normal response by your pet’s immune system during the process of developing protective immunity.
Common clinical signs your pet may experience:
- Mild fever
- Decrease in social behavior
- Diminished appetite or activity
- Soreness or mild swelling at the site of injection
Rarely, a pet may experience an allergic reaction to a vaccine. If this occurs, your pet will need medical attention and you should call our office, or an Emergency hospital immediately for further direction. The clinical signs of allergic reaction include:
- Swelling to the face
- Hives along the head and body
- Whole body itching
- Repeated vomiting and diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse
If your pet experiences any of these rare clinical signs, you should contact your Veterinarian immediately as your pet may require additional medical treatment.