Pet Vaccinations at Our Valley Veterinary Hospital of Helena in Helena, MT
Part of routine veterinary care for your pet should include routine vaccinations that can prevent a number of common diseases. These diseases can cause severe illness and even death, particularly for younger animals whose immune systems are not mature and for older animals that may be in uncertain health. In addition, regular vaccinations will prevent expensive vet bills that can strain your budget. At Valley Veterinary Hospital of Helena in Helena, MT we offer pet vaccinations that ensure protection from these common illnesses.
Why Are Vaccinations Important to Your Pet’s Health?
Many pet owners believe their animal companions are safe from common diseases because they don’t go outside very much, or they have no contact with other animals. However, diseases can be picked up from the waste left by other animals or bacteria left on objects they have handled. For this reason, your pet should receive regularly recommended vaccinations to ensure these unanticipated contacts don’t result in illness that can be serious. Some vaccinations are considered “core” vaccines, which all animals should receive. Other vaccinations are considered “non-care,” and these should be given to animals that are at risk of exposure to certain other diseases. Although vaccinating your pet can have some side effects, these are generally minor, compared to the risks from the diseases.
Dog Vaccinations
Core vaccines for dogs include those against parvovirus, distemper, and canine hepatitis. Non-core vaccines include Bordatella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and leptospirosis. At your veterinarian in Helena, diseases can be prevented with the right vaccinations for your dog’s needs. Puppies begin a series of vaccinations in the early weeks, which continue until 16 to 20 weeks. They will then receive annual boosters as adults.
Cat Vaccinations
Core vaccines for cats include those against panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and rabies. Non-core vaccines protect your cat against feline leukemia, feline chlamydia virus, and feline infectious peritonitis. Your vet can advise if your cat needs these additional vaccines. Kittens begin vaccinations when a few weeks old and continue at intervals until 16 weeks. Adult cats are vaccinated annually.
Contact Our Team of Veterinarians at Valley Veterinary Hospital of Helena in Helena, MT for Pet Vaccinations
Dr. Reisinger has extensive knowledge and experience of veterinary medicine and know how important your pets are to your life. That’s why “For Happy and Healthy Pets” is part of their name. We offer a range of veterinary services for animals and can help ensure your pet’s health throughout its life. If you have concerns about the safety of vaccinations, we will be happy to discuss the matter with you. Call Valley Veterinary Hospital of Helena today at (406) 442-0188 for an appointment to learn more about the vaccinations that can be critical to your pet’s health.