Vaccinations are a critical component in the preventative health care of your pets. They protect against potentially deadly diseases and ensure that your furry friends live a long, healthy life. Vaccinations stimulate the pet's immune system to prepare it to fight future infections without the risk of a full-blown disease.

Vaccines contain antigens, which mimic disease-causing organisms in your pet's body, without actually causing the disease. When a vaccine is administered, it triggers an immune response that will help your pet fight off the real disease if they ever come into contact with it.

Core Vaccinations for Dogs

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can affect all mammals, including humans. It is typically spread through the bite of an infected animal. The rabies vaccine is legally required in many places because of the risk to humans and other animals.

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs, often with severe consequences. It is especially dangerous for puppies. The vaccine is considered a core vaccine and is essential for all dogs.

Canine distemper is a viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. The distemper vaccine is a core vaccine recommended for all dogs.

Infectious canine hepatitis is a disease caused by a virus that affects the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and the eyes of the affected dog. The vaccine against canine hepatitis is included in the core vaccinations for dogs.

Core Vaccinations for Cats

Feline panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease of cats caused by the feline parvovirus. The disease is life-threatening and the vaccine is considered a core vaccine for cats.

Feline herpesvirus type I is a common cause of respiratory infections in cats, as well as conjunctivitis or inflammation of the eyelid. Vaccination against FHV-1 is recommended for all cats.

Feline calicivirus is a common viral disease that affects cats, causing upper respiratory infections and oral disease. Like the other core vaccines, it is recommended for all cats.

As with dogs, the rabies vaccine is essential for all cats and is often required by law.

Non-Core Vaccinations and Considerations

Non-core vaccines are given depending on the pet's exposure risk. These include vaccines for diseases like Bordetella bronchiseptica, Leptospirosis, and Lyme disease in dogs, and Feline Leukemia Virus in cats.

When deciding on non-core vaccines, consider your pet's lifestyle, such as their exposure to other animals, and whether they spend time outdoors.

Vaccination Schedules and Veterinary Care

Following a proper vaccination schedule is crucial for maintaining your pet's health. Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccinations in their first year of life, followed by regular boosters throughout their adulthood.

Regular check-ups with a veterinarian at BALU LOOMAKLIINIK OÜ will ensure that your pet's vaccinations are up to date and that they are protected against diseases. Your vet can also provide personalized advice based on your pet's specific needs.