One of the easiest ways to protect your pet is with appropriate, scheduled immunizations. The time and effort invested in these, as part of an overall wellness program, has rewards for both pets and owners. Many diseases are completely preventable with vaccines. Vaccinations also keep your pet from spreading disease to other pets in your community and to you as well.
Not all pets need all the same immunizations. Some are needed to comply with local law, while others may or may not be applicable to your pet. As a rule, you don’t want to “over immunize,” as it is an unneeded expense and risk. At Wilkinson Animal Hospital in Gastonia, North Carolina, we evaluate your pet’s risks and vaccinate accordingly.
Here are a few additional reasons why regular immunizations are beneficial:
Vaccinations are the best weapon against many viral and bacterial infections in pets.
Millions of dogs & cats have been saved by vaccines.
Vaccines are safe and well-tolerated by most pets.
Vaccines help your pet live a longer, healthier and happier life.
Rabies vaccination is required by North Carolina state law.
Vaccinating your pet while their immune system is still young and developing will give your pet the protection it needs to stay healthy. Keeping up to date with your pet’s annual/scheduled vaccines is vital to their health and even the health of other pets and people in your community.
Pet Vaccinations - What to Expect
During an appointment, our veterinarians will provide you with vaccine education, discussing topics like scheduling booster shots, the importance of returning annually, your pet's history, lifestyle, prevalence of disease in North Carolina, your travel plans and dog park protocol.
Required and Recommended Vaccines for Cats and Dogs
Required/recommended vaccines for dogs:
Canine parvovirus
Distemper
Adenovirus-2
Rabies (required by state law)
Parainfluenza virus (CPiV)
Canine influenza virus
Distemper-measles combination vaccine
Bordetella bronchiseptica
Leptospirosis
Lyme Disease
Required/recommended vaccines for cats:
Wilkinson Animal Hospital, located in Gastonia, North Carolina, can help with your pet’s vaccinations. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
