Keeping Your Pet Protected: Why Vaccines Matter

Celebrating National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to highlight one of the most important ways we can keep our pets happy, healthy, and protected: vaccines! 

Why Vaccinate Your Dog or Cat? 

Vaccines help your pet’s immune system recognize and fight off harmful diseases before they take hold. Some vaccines are core, meaning they are recommended for all pets, while others are lifestyle-based, tailored to your pet’s risk factors, environment, or travel habits. 

Here are a few of the most common preventable diseases to vaccinate against: 

• Rabies: Fatal and transmissible to humans. Required for dogs and cats by law in most areas. 
• Distemper: A contagious and often deadly virus affecting dogs and cats. 
• Parvovirus: Especially dangerous to puppies; can cause severe gastrointestinal illness. 
• Feline Leukemia: A virus that suppresses the immune system in cats. 
• Leptospirosis (dogs only): A bacterial disease that can spread to humans, common in areas with wildlife or standing water. 
• Bordetella (kennel cough): A highly contagious respiratory disease common in social dogs. 

When Should My Pet Get Vaccinated? 

Vaccination schedules can vary based on your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle. Typically: 

• Puppies and kittens begin their vaccine series at 6–8 weeks of age. 
• Boosters are given every 2-3 weeks until your pet is 16–20 weeks old. 
• Adults need regular boosters to stay protected, often every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine. 

Not Just a One-Time Thing 

Many pet parents think vaccines are a “one and done” event, but immunity fades over time. Keeping up with your cat’s or dog’s boosters and annual exams is just as important as the initial shots to maintain disease-fighting antibodies. 

Vaccines also help us protect our community, especially pets who are too young, too old, or medically unable to be vaccinated. It’s part of the larger goal of responsible pet ownership and public health. 

This August, schedule your pet’s wellness exam or vaccine booster and help us celebrate National Immunization Awareness Month the best way we know how, by keeping our furry friends healthy and safe.