The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pets

Our veterinarians, Dr. Sanders and Dr. Warner at Cordova Station Animal Hospital in Cordova, TN, would like to stress the importance of vaccinating your pets. Vaccines can prevent illness and disease in your pets. They can help you avoid expensive treatments for preventable diseases. Vaccines prevent diseases that are passed from animal to animal and a few from animal to human. In many areas, local and state laws require certain pet vaccines to keep your pet and the local pet population safe.

The Importance of Vaccines for Puppies and Kittens

If you are a puppy or kitten owner, one of our veterinarians has likely told you about the series of vaccines your furry little friend needs. This is because young animals are highly susceptible to infectious diseases. After all, their immune systems are not yet fully mature. Typically, the first vaccine dose is intended to prime the animal's immune system against the virus or bacteria, while the next doses help further stimulate their immune system to produce the essential antibodies required for long-term protection.

Do Vaccines Have Side Effects?

Commonly, pets will experience a few mild side effects after being vaccinated. If any of the following side effects last longer than two days, you must get in touch with our veterinarians:

• Discomfort and local swelling at the site of the vaccination
• Mild fever
• Decreased appetite or activity
• Sneezing and mild coughing

Rare Side Effects

Other less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes or hours after the vaccination. Seek medical care from our veterinarians as soon as possible if any of these conditions are present:

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Itchy skin or hives
• Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes
• Severe coughing or difficulty breathing

Pet Vaccinations in Cordova, TN

Veterinarians all over the world have recommended vaccinations to keep pets safe. Many factors go into designing an appropriate vaccination schedule for your pet. Our veterinarians will perform a thorough examination and develop a schedule to keep your furry friend safe throughout his or her lifetime. Call Cordova Station Animal Hospital today at 901-753-3540 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.