Why Vaccinate Your Phoenix or Glendale Pet?

If you just adopted a new four-legged member of the household, do you know when — or whether — it has been vaccinated against common animal diseases? Even if you do have that information, do you know when the next vaccinations are due?

Here at Finlayson Animal Hospital P.C., we would love to see every pet in Phoenix and Glendale properly protected against potentially serious threats to their health. Take a moment to review a few of the common vaccinations you should make sure your pet receives.

Our Animal Clinic Safeguards Your Pet's Health

Rabies, of course, poses a serious threat to animals and humans alike. Rabies passes from animal to animal through bites, and an infected pet (or person) can suffer brain damage and eventually die. A veterinarian cannot confirm rabies in a living animal, and if your pet shows the symptoms you may have to have the pet euthanized. Keeping up a regular program of vaccinations can help prevent this sad outcome for your family.

You can begin your pet’s rabies vaccinations when he or she is only 3 months old. Our veterinarian, Dr. Finlayson will then give you a schedule for follow up vaccinations, as booster shots are often required to uphold the efficacy of the vaccine.

Dogs and cats get species-specific variants of many of the same diseases, notably distemper. Dogs should also be vaccinated against hepatitis, parvovirus, Giardia and the virus that can lead to “kennel cough.”

Cats have their own special vulnerabilities to diseases such as panleukopenia and respiratory conditions such as calicivirus or viral rhinotracheitis.

If you keep horses, they will need vaccinations not only against rabies but also equine influenza, botulism, the respiratory disease known as “strangles,” and especially tetanus.

Fortunately, our animal hospital is able to take care of all your pets’ vaccination needs. We also offer equine veterinarian services alongside our caring, experienced treatment of dogs, cats and other animals.

Do you have a burning question about a particular vaccine or the illness it treats? Post it here!