Everybody wants to make sure that their pets are healthy and fit. Making sure our pets stay up to date with vaccinations is one of the most important measures we can take toward that goal. At the very least, vaccinations protect our pets against some serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.
Keeping your pet’s vaccinations current can minimize the potential need for emergency visits to the ER vet clinic for diseases that could have been prevented. Below, we will explain the need for immunization, detailing protection against serious diseases for your pet.
Protect Against Infectious Diseases
Vaccinations are scheduled to protect pets from different infectious diseases. There are diseases to which dogs are prone, like rabies, canine parvovirus, and distemper. All these types of diseases can easily provoke acute symptoms and may result in death if they are not treated in time. Similarly, cats are also exposed to hazardous diseases like feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus, which may imply pernicious outcomes for their normal health and life expectancy. By having your pets vaccinated, you will be giving them the much-needed immunity to fight off these diseases and live healthily.
Reduce Spread of Contagious Diseases
Many of the vaccination-prevented diseases are contagious. This will mean that your non-vaccinated pet will easily get infected and spread these infectious diseases to other animals. For instance, diseases such as kennel cough in dogs and feline calicivirus in cats can be transmitted in certain instances when they are in boarding facilities, grooming salons, and parks.
Contributing to Herd Immunity
The vaccination of pets can also increase herd immunity. Herd immunity is the state when such a large proportion of a population is immunized against an infection that, in all details, will generally reduce the occurrence of that infection. This is very important for animals that, due to health reasons, are unable to be vaccinated—for instance, very young puppies and kittens, elderly pets, or even those with specific medical conditions.
Ensuring Long-Term Health
Vaccinations protect pets not just from immediate pathogens but also offer long-term health. The vaccinations prevent many of the diseases that can result in chronic health issues, a good deal of suffering, and extensive treatment. An example is rabies, which, when infected, is usually fatal and can indeed be transferred to human beings. Meanwhile, by keeping up with animal vaccinations, you are protecting your pets from catching some serious diseases and ensuring that the community stays healthy.
Peace of Mind for Pet Parents
Bring peace of mind—just knowing your pet is vaccinated can put your mind at rest. You will know you’ve protected your pet from sickness and death from some nasty, possibly devastating diseases. This brings peace of mind to being able to spend time with your pet without fearing your pet can catch serious but preventable diseases.
Conclusion
Vaccination is one of the hallmarks of responsible pet ownership. They protect pets from serious and contagious diseases, make a contribution to health in the community through herd immunity, and offer them long-term protection. One of the major ways to safeguard your pet’s health and provide it with the best possible chance for a long and healthy life is by keeping their vaccinations current. Consult your veterinarian for vaccination schedules and the benefits of specific vaccines. Your pet is worth it.
