August is National Immunization Awareness Month. Just like in humans, it is important that your pet is vaccinated to help keep your pet safe from preventable pet illnesses that can lead to serious health issues or even death. Vaccines help trigger your pets immune system’s production of antibodies that ultimately help fight against disease-causing agents.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, here are five reasons to vaccinate your pet:
-
- Vaccinations prevent many pet illnesses.
- Vaccinations can help avoid costly treatments for diseases that can be prevented.
- Vaccinations prevent diseases that can be passed between animals and also from animals to people.
- Diseases prevalent in wildlife, such as rabies and distemper, can infect unvaccinated pets.
- In many areas, local or state ordinances require certain vaccinations of household pets.
“Core” vaccines are advised for most pets that live in a particular area or geographical location because they protect diseases most common to that are. “Non-core” vaccinations are recommended to your pet with specific needs. With any type of medical treatment, there are risks, but in most cases the benefits will outweigh the risk. Vaccines keep your pet safe, your family safe and the community safe from potentially fatal diseases. In all cases, it is best to always consult with your veterinarian.