Taking your pet to the vet every year for vaccinations and a check-up can easily get lost in the hectic schedule of everyday life. However, any pet wellness regime should always include vaccines as well as an annual exam by a veterinarian to maintain the optimal health of your pet. 

Why You Should Stay Current with Your Pet's Vaccinations

All 50 U.S. states require that healthy dogs over the age of three or four months be vaccinated for rabies. Many states have similar regulations for cats and other domestic animals. In addition to keeping in line with the law, vaccines are important in preventing common pet diseases. Even if your pet stays inside the majority of the time, he or she should be vaccinated. Dogs go outside and even cats can "escape' every now and again.

Most veterinary hospitals, including ours, will be happy to discuss the vaccines they recommend based on your pet's age, habits and general health. For cats, the core vaccines include rabies, FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calici, & Panleukopenia) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia). For dogs, the core vaccines include rabies, DAP (Distemper, Adenovirus, & Parainfluenza), Leptospirosis, Intranasal Parainfluenza/Bordetella and K9 Influenza vaccine. Dogs and cats can begin their vaccines as early as three to four months of age. 

Vaccinating Your Pet at North Suffolk Animal Clinic

Our Suffolk area animal clinic welcomes pets and their owners from all over the Tidewater region, including residents of Hampton, Smithfield and Newport News. We offer a kitten and puppy wellness package that is somewhat unique among veterinary hospitals. These packages include vaccines as well as a comprehensive exam by our veterinarian, a spay or neuter procedure and microchipping at a fraction of what it would cost if you purchased each service separately. We make it affordable for you to start your pet early on a healthy life.

Have you recently had your cat or dog vaccinated for rabies and other common pet diseases? Was the experience a pleasant one? Share your story with our readers by leaving a comment below.