Pet Vaccinations for Preventative Care

Pet vaccinations are one of the most important things you provide for your pets. Vaccines help keep your pet safe from some of the most devastating illnesses and medical conditions. Whether it is flea and tick prevention or preventing deadly diseases, your pet relies on you to keep it safe. At Fort Hunt Animal Hospital in Alexandria, our pet doctors will make sure your pets are up to date on all their vaccinations.

Pet Vaccinations

Pet vaccinations are divided into two categories, core vaccines, and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are those that are considered vital to your pet's health, and in the case of rabies, the rabies vaccine is mandated in all states. In Virginia, the mandate is that dogs and cats need to get their rabies vaccination by the time they are four months old.

Dogs

Core vaccines for dogs include:

• Rabies
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Canine hepatitis

Non-core vaccines for dogs include:

Bordatella: This is known as kennel cough and if you are going to board your dog, take it to a groomer, or doggie daycare, this is a vaccination you need to include for your pet.

Leptospirosis: If your dog hangs around outside at all, even just in your yard, this is a good vaccination to include.

Cats

For cats, core vaccines include:

• Rabies
• Viral rhinitranchetis
• Calicivirus
• Panleukopenia

For cats, non-core vaccines include:

• Feline leukemia: This is especially deadly to kittens.
• Chlamydia: If your cat is in a communal setting, this is a must.

Contact Our Veterinarians in Alexandria, VA

Vaccinations have saved countless lives since their introduction to veterinary medicine. At Fort Hunt Animal Hospital, our veterinarians provide quality veterinary care to ensure the health and safety of the pet community. Call our team today at (703) 360-6100 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.