3 Reasons You Should Get Your Pet Vaccinated From Your Columbus, OH Veterinarian
If your pet seems healthy enough, or if you've never had to deal with a serious illness in any of your pets, you may be wondering what's so important about pet vaccinations. Here are three compelling reasons you should place this simple veterinary wellness procedure at the top of your to-do list.
Why Pet Vaccination Makes Sense
1. Pets are born without disease resistance. Puppies and kittens depend completely on their mother's milk for the antibodies that protect them against deadly diseases -- their own immune systems have not yet been triggered to produce such antibodies. Pet vaccinations introduce inert versions of the germs in question so your pet's body will respond by manufacturing the necessary antibodies. That's why your little friend needs several initial rounds of vaccinations during the first year of life. But these vaccinations will eventually lose their potency, so you should also be prepared to schedule booster shots per our recommendations at Hamilton Road Animal Clinic.
2. Your pet may be at elevated risk for specific diseases. Even if your pet has had all his core vaccinations against the most common disease threats, you should vaccinate him against any specific additional dangers his environment may present. For instance, if you plan on boarding your pet, you may need to vaccinate him against Bordetella, which can be spread through close contact with other animals. If your pet will be traveling through the woods, we may recommend vaccinating against Lyme disease. Our team can advise you as to your individual pet’s vaccination needs.
3. The law requires it. Aside from the simple fact that rabies is highly infectious (through the bite of an infected animal) and invariably fatal in pets, Ohio and every other state in the U.S. requires owners to vaccinate their pets against this neurological disease. If you cross state lines or move to a pet-friendly apartment, you may be required to present documented proof that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.
Hamilton Road Animal Hospital Is Your Vaccination Headquarters
There are other good reasons to vaccinate your pet, but these three should motivate you to do the right thing for your beloved friend. Call 614-239-0027 to schedule vaccinations at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital, your vaccination headquarters in Columbus, OH.