A common question we hear is, "What vaccines does my dog or cat really need?" Another is a variation of, "But she never goes outside, why does she need any vaccines at all?" Sometimes, we hear, "I read on the internet that vaccinations are dangerous, I don't want my dog or cat to get them!"
First, let's go over some vaccination basics. Vaccines are used to stimulate the immune system so that it will be ready to fight infectious diseases; they help build immunity. In order to be effective, they must be given on a specific schedule which varies based on the individual animal, risk factors, and the disease involved. Some vaccines need repeated boosters, some provide a longer duration of immunity. Young puppies and kittens are particularly vulnerable, and should follow the vaccination schedule closely. A great deal of research has produced a solid foundation of evidence based medicine regarding the use and timing of vaccines. Evidence based medicine is the bedrock of sound decision making when evaluating which vaccines a patient needs, and when they should be given. The American Animal Hospital Association and the American Association of Feline Practitioners have created guidelines for vaccine use structured on evidence based medicine, and we are proud to follow these recommendations. Vaccines have been defined as Core, Non-core, or Not recommended. Core vaccines are required of all patients to avoid the spread of infectious agents in the hospital.
Any dog or cat who goes outside, even if just into a fenced yard or on a leash for short periods, is at risk of contracting infectious diseases. Even indoor only patients are at risk. Many of the diseases we vaccinate for can be spread by casual contact, or by contact with contaminated objects. Think of a quick trip to the park, or the pet food store. You pet the cute puppies or kittens you see there, and unknowingly bring infectious agents home on your skin, clothes, or even on the items you purchased. Perhaps you visit with friends who have a dog or cat, again you may find yourself as the agent to transfer an infection into your home. What if you go to the groomer, kennel, training, or daycare with your dog or cat? Again, you risk exposure. That stray dog or cat wandering through your yard may be shedding infectious agents directly into your pets areas. We can't just lock ourselves and our pets into the house and hide. Day to day life will bring exposure, but with appropriate vaccinations we can avoid many infectious diseases.
As with any medical treatment, there are potential complications associated with vaccines. Vaccines are constantly improving, and the safety of vaccination is excellent. The incidence of adverse effects from vaccinations are very low. We see a few patients per year who suffer a vaccination reaction (facial swelling, hives, and occasionally vomiting or diarrhea). The vast majority of these are quickly and easily treated. Those patients who have had a vaccine reaction in the past are given medications prior to future vaccinations, thus avoiding future reactions. Very rarely, a patient may have a more severe reaction which may involve more intensive treatment. In comparison, every year we see hundreds of patients with diseases that could have been prevented by vaccination. Some of these animals die from their disease. It is a terrible feeling to see an animal die of a disease which could have been prevented by appropriate vaccination. The benefit clearly outweighs the risk, and evidence based medicine strongly supports appropriate use of vaccines.
For more information, visit these pet specific vaccine pages: