Answering Your Pet Vaccination FAQs

Getting your pet vaccinated is one of the most responsible things you can do as a pet owner. Vaccines protect your pet from diseases that can cause significant health problems for it and other pets. Some of these diseases can even be fatal in humans and pets alike, such as rabies. As a new pet owner, you may have questions about pet vaccines. Prairie Creek Pet Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, is here to answer your frequently asked questions about pet vaccines.

Do Both Cats and Dogs Need Vaccinations?

The simple and short answer is yes, cats and dogs need vaccinations. Many states require the rabies vaccine, and your pet often needs specific vaccines for boarding. Vaccines also protect your pet from significant and life-threatening illnesses that can also affect other pets and humans. Vaccinating your pet is the best way to prevent these and keep the general pet population safe.

What Vaccines Does My Pet Need?

Your veterinarian near you will recommend core vaccines to protect your pet’s health and ensure it remains safe from significant diseases. These vaccines often include parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and canine hepatitis for dogs and feline distemper, feline calicivirus, rabies, and feline herpesvirus for cats. Your veterinarian may also recommend several non-core vaccines based on your pet’s environment and lifestyle. These non-core vaccines may include Bordetella, canine influenza, Lyme’s disease, and chlamydia.

Are Vaccines Safe?

Vaccines have minor risks and often result in little or no side effects. Most pets show no noticeable side effects after vaccination. Minor cases of side effects can include hives, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, these symptoms typically resolve on their own shortly after your pet experiences them. Contact your veterinarian if your pet’s symptoms last longer than a day or two. They can determine the cause of your pet’s reaction and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms.

Get Your Pet Vaccinated Today at Prairie Creek Pet Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD

If you have more questions about pet vaccines or want to schedule an appointment with your “veterinarian near you” to vaccinate your pet, contact the veterinary team at Prairie Creek Pet Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, today. We can answer your questions and ensure your pet receives the best care possible to help it live a long, healthy life. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (605) 339-8900 to vaccinate your pet.