Pet Vaccines and Immunization Plans in Scottsdale, AZ

What Are Veterinary Vaccines?

Veterinary vaccines are specially designed to protect your pet from a variety of preventable diseases. Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, including viruses and bacteria that could otherwise cause serious illness or even death. By introducing a small, safe dose of these pathogens, vaccines help train your pet’s immune system to respond rapidly if exposed to the disease in the future.

We have options when it comes to immunizing your pet from single valent canine vaccines, thimerosal-free rabies vaccine for dogs and cats, and vaccination titers for dogs and cats. Why Are Vaccines Important for Pets?

Having an immunization plan is crucial for preventing potentially fatal diseases that can affect pets of all ages. Vaccines help your pet’s immune system improve your pet’s overall health, giving them the protection they need from harmful viruses, bacteria, and other diseases. For pets with high-risk lifestyles—such as those who visit boarding facilities, daycares, or grooming salons—vaccines are particularly important.

What Pet Vaccination Services Are Available at Kaibab Animal Hospital?

At Kaibab Animal Hospital, we offer a wide range of vaccinations for both dogs and cats, ensuring your pet receives the best care possible. These include:

• Rabies
• Bordetella
• DAP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus)
• Leptospirosis
• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)
• Distemper (Single-Valent)
• Parvovirus (Single-Valent)

In addition to these essential vaccines, we also offer vaccine titers and single-valent vaccines for dogs and cats, which help to further customize your pet’s vaccination plan based on their unique health requirements.

Are There Non-Core Vaccinations Based on Your Pet’s Lifestyle?

Not all pets need the same vaccines. Depending on your pet’s lifestyle, additional vaccinations may be necessary to offer optimal protection. Non-core vaccines are typically recommended based on exposure risk.

• Lyme Disease: Recommended for pets in areas with high tick populations or those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Influenza: Essential for pets who frequently interact with other animals, such as those in boarding or daycare settings.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): A highly contagious respiratory disease that is common in places where pets are in close contact, like kennels and grooming salons.
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): Primarily recommended for outdoor cats or those with exposure to other cats, as FeLV is a leading cause of feline cancer.

By considering your pet’s lifestyle and potential risk factors, Kaibab Animal Hospital can tailor a vaccination protocol that best suits their needs.

At What Age Should I Start Vaccinating My Pet?

The right time to start vaccinating your pet depends on their age and species. For puppies and kittens, vaccinations typically begin at 8 weeks of age, with a series of booster shots until they are around 16-18 weeks old. These early vaccinations help protect against some of the most common and dangerous diseases, such as parvovirus and distemper.

How Often Should My Pet Receive Booster Vaccines?

Booster vaccinations are necessary to keep your pet’s immunity strong and up to date. The frequency of these boosters depends on factors such as your pet’s age, lifestyle, and medical history. For some vaccines, boosters may be required annually, while others may be needed every three years. At Kaibab Animal Hospital, our team of vets will create a personalized vaccination schedule for your pet, ensuring they receive timely boosters to maintain optimal protection.

Are There Any Side Effects After Veterinary Shots?

Vaccine side effects are rare but can occur. Common reactions include mild lethargy, swelling at the injection site, or mild fever. In very rare cases, pets may experience more severe reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, or hives. These side effects usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours.

What to Do if Your Pet Has a Reaction

In the rare event that your pet experiences a vaccine reaction, it’s important to remain calm. Most side effects are temporary and resolve on their own. However, if your pet is showing signs of a severe reaction, such as difficulty breathing, weakness, vomiting, or excessive swelling, please contact Kaibab Animal Hospital right away.

Are There Any Specific Vaccinations Required by Law for Pets?

Yes, certain vaccines are required by law, particularly Rabies vaccination, which is mandatory for dogs and cats in many areas, including Scottsdale, AZ. Rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans, making vaccination essential for public health.

Why Choose Kaibab Animal Hospital for Pet Vaccinations?

• Personalized Vaccination Protocols: We create a tailored vaccination plan based on your pet’s unique needs, ensuring protection without unnecessary treatments.
• Individualized Care: Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, health history, and any concerns you may have, providing the best possible care.
• Holistic and Integrative Approach: We combine traditional veterinary practices with alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic care for comprehensive treatment.
• Commitment to Lifelong Health: Our approach is designed to keep your pet healthy for life, offering both preventative and ongoing care.