At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, we know how important it is to keep your furry friends safe and healthy. One of the best ways to do this is by making sure they get the proper vaccinations. These shots protect pets from dangerous illnesses and help them live long happy lives.
Why Vaccines Are Important
Vaccines help protect pets from serious diseases that can make them sick or even life-threatening. They also stop these diseases from spreading to other animals—or even people in some cases, like rabies. Vaccines are a simple and effective way to keep pets healthy.
Stay updated with vaccines to protect your pet from illnesses like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. Plus, vaccines can help avoid costly treatments for diseases that could have been prevented.
Vaccines for Dogs
Dogs need certain vaccines to stay healthy and safe. Here are the main ones we recommend:
- Rabies Vaccine: This protects against rabies, a deadly disease that can spread to humans. It’s required by law in most places.
- Distemper Vaccine: Prevents a virus that attacks the lungs, stomach, and brain, which can be deadly.
- Parvovirus Vaccine: Protects against a virus that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting, especially in puppies.
- Hepatitis Vaccine: Prevents liver damage caused by a virus that can also affect the respiratory system.
- Kennel Cough Vaccine (Bordetella): Recommended for dogs at daycare, boarding, or dog parks. It prevents a contagious cough that spreads in social settings.
- Leptospirosis Vaccine: Protects against bacteria found in water or soil that can harm the liver and kidneys—and can infect humans too.
Vaccines for Cats
Cats also need vaccines to protect them from harmful diseases. These are the most important ones:
- Rabies Vaccine: Like for dogs, this vaccine keeps cats safe from rabies, which can also spread to humans.
- Feline Distemper Vaccine: Prevents a dangerous virus that affects the stomach and immune system.
- Upper Respiratory Vaccines (Herpesvirus and Calicivirus): These vaccines protect against common viruses that cause coughing, sneezing, and runny noses in cats.
- Feline Leukemia Vaccine: Recommended for cats outside or around other cats. It protects against a virus that weakens the immune system.
- Chlamydia Vaccine: Helps prevent eye and respiratory infections in cats.
Custom Plans for Your Pet
At East Hill Animal Hospital, we know every pet is different. That’s why we create a vaccination plan just for your pet. Puppies, kittens, and adult pets all have different needs. For example:
- Puppies and Kittens need a series of vaccines to build up their immunity when they’re young.
- Adult Pets need booster shots to stay protected over time.
- Pets with Specific Lifestyles (like outdoor cats or dogs that visit dog parks) may need extra vaccines based on their activities and environment.
Why Booster Shots Matter
Vaccines don’t last forever. That’s why booster shots are so important. These extra doses are given yearly or every few years to strengthen your pet’s protection. During your pet’s annual check-up, we’ll review their vaccine schedule and provide any boosters they need.
What to Expect at a Vaccination Visit
We aim to make vaccination visits easy and stress-free for you and your pet. When you come in, our veterinarian will:
- Perform a quick health check to ensure your pet is ready for their shots.
- Explain what vaccines your pet is getting and why.
- Administer the vaccines gently to keep your pet comfortable.
Keeping Your Pet Healthy All Year
Vaccinations are just one part of keeping your pet healthy. During your visit, we’ll also discuss other ways to care for your pet, like parasite prevention, good nutrition, and regular dental care.
Schedule Your Pet’s Vaccination Today
Protecting your pet with vaccines is one of the best things you can do for their health. At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, we ensure your pet gets the care they need. Call us today to schedule a vaccination appointment and keep your pet safe, happy, and healthy for years.
We know a healthy pet can mean a happy family!