Many people have heard of pet vaccinations in Boiling Springs, SC, but they don't really understand just how important they are.

Unfortunately, this can lead to owners causing them to suffer from an entirely preventable illness and actually put their health and even their life at risk.

If you have recently adopted a pet, or if you have had your pet for a while but haven't given any thought to pet vaccinations, here is what you most need to know about this valuable type of preventative medical care.

Why Are Pet Vaccinations Important?

Our animals can become affected by illnesses and diseases just like we can, and in some circumstances, these conditions can have serious or even deadly consequences for our pet's health. Many are contagious, meaning that they can be spread very quickly among populations of unprotected animals, and in the past, before vaccinations, they were responsible for countless premature deaths. However today, thanks to the wide availability of affordable animal vaccines, thousands of pets in Boiling Springs, SC. can be successfully protected against these conditions and live long healthy lives.

How Do Pet Vaccinations Work?

Pet vaccines work in exactly the same way as human immunizations - by stimulating an immune response in your pet without causing the disease itself. When healthy animals are vaccinated, their own immune system not only responds to the vaccine but can also remember the infectious agent with which they have been vaccinated. This means that if they are exposed to the real infection in the future, their body will automatically fight it before any symptoms can be caused. However, it is important to recognize that due to varying strains of some conditions, sometimes vaccinations only prevent the disease from coming into full force - your pet might still experience a few, milder symptoms.

What Vaccinations Does My Pet Need?

Exactly what vaccinations your pet will need will depend on various factors including her species, her age, and where you live. For this reason, it is recommended that you speak to your veterinarian in Boiling Springs, SC about a comprehensive vaccination program as soon as you bring your furbaby home for the first time.

Vaccinations are divided into two types. These are known as 'core' and 'non-core'. Core vaccines are those which should be given to every pet of that type irrespective of their age, breed, or gender. Non-core vaccines are normally based on specific requirements, such as if you live in an area of the country where certain diseases are more likely, or if your pet has a struggling immune system. Your vet will be able to break down for you exactly what vaccinations your pet will need and how often she should have them.

Typical core vaccinations for dogs include:

• Canine distemper
• Canine parvovirus
• Leptospirosis
• Canine hepatitis
• Rabies
• Parainfluenza

Typical core vaccines for cats include:

• Feline panleukopenia
• Feline calicivirus
• Feline herpesvirus
• Rabies

How Long Are Vaccinations Effective For?

The effectiveness of vaccinations is only temporary, and this is why entering a program of scheduled immunizations is essential for your pet to remain healthy. Your vet will be able to tell you how often boosters are required, and it is important that you get these done on time so that your pet is not left vulnerable at any point.

If your pet is in need of her regular vaccinations, or you would like more information on the pet vaccination process, please make an appointment with our experienced vets in Boiling Springs, SC by calling (864) 578-1220.