Understanding Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats: Protecting Your Pet's Health

At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we know how much you care about your furry companions. One of the most important steps in keeping your pet healthy is ensuring they receive their core vaccines. Following the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) guidelines, we recommend essential vaccines to protect dogs and cats from severe, preventable diseases.  North Vancouver Vet

What Are Core Vaccines?

Core vaccines are those recommended for all pets, regardless of their lifestyle or environment. These vaccines protect against contagious and potentially fatal diseases that pose a significant risk to animals and, in some cases, humans.  North Vancouver Vet

Core Vaccines for Dogs

According to AAHA guidelines, the core vaccines for dogs include:

• Rabies: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including dogs, cats, and humans. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, typically wildlife such as bats, raccoons, or foxes. Rabies vaccinations are not only essential for protecting your pet, but they are also required by law in most regions to protect public health.

• Distemper: Canine distemper is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease. It affects a dog's respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, causing symptoms such as fever, coughing, nasal discharge, vomiting, and neurological issues like seizures. While it primarily spreads through direct contact or airborne exposure, vaccination provides effective protection.

• Parvovirus: Parvovirus is an extremely contagious and life-threatening disease, especially dangerous to puppies. It attacks the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), and dehydration. The virus is incredibly resilient in the environment, making vaccination critical for prevention.

• Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Canine adenovirus type 1 causes infectious canine hepatitis, a disease that damages the liver and can lead to bleeding disorders and organ failure. Adenovirus type 2, though primarily linked to respiratory disease, is also covered through the combination vaccine, ensuring comprehensive protection.

• Leptospirosis: Now considered a core vaccine in dogs, leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water, soil, or the urine of infected wildlife. It can cause liver and kidney damage and can be transmitted to humans, making it a significant public health concern. Dogs that frequent parks, lakes, or rural areas are particularly at risk.

   North Vancouver Vet

Core Vaccines for Cats

The AAHA also provides guidelines for core vaccines in cats, which include:

• Rabies: Just like in dogs, rabies vaccination is essential for cats to protect both pets and people. Even indoor cats can be exposed if a rabid animal enters the home, making this vaccine crucial.

• Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Calicivirus (FCV): These viruses are the primary causes of feline upper respiratory infections, often referred to as "cat flu." Symptoms include sneezing, eye discharge, and ulcers in the mouth. Calicivirus can also cause joint pain and lameness. Vaccination significantly reduces the severity and spread of these infections.

• Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease. It severely impacts the immune system and gastrointestinal tract, leading to lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Kittens are especially susceptible, making timely vaccination vital.

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): For cats younger than one year old, FeLV is considered a core vaccine. This virus weakens the immune system and can lead to serious infections, anemia, and lymphoma. It is primarily spread through close contact, such as grooming or sharing food and water. Kittens are particularly vulnerable, and vaccination offers essential protection.

   North Vancouver Vet

Why Are Core Vaccines Essential?

Vaccinating your pet helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases, providing protection not only for your pet but also for the broader animal community. Core vaccines have been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy, offering a reliable way to safeguard your pet's well-being.

 North Vancouver Vet

Vaccination Schedule

At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we tailor vaccination schedules to meet your pet's individual needs. Puppies and kittens typically begin their vaccine series at eight weeks of age, with boosters given at 12 and 16 weeks. Adult pets require periodic boosters at regular intervals depending on the vaccine to maintain immunity. Adult pets require periodic boosters to maintain immunity. Our veterinarians will work with you to create a personalized vaccination plan.

 North Vancouver Vet

Final Thoughts

Vaccinations are a simple yet powerful way to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a vaccine appointment, contact us at Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic. Together, we can keep your beloved companions protected and thriving.

 North Vancouver Vet

Give us a call today to learn more about core vaccines and how they can benefit your pet!