When it comes to our pets, we always want to do the best for them, whether that is feeding them the right food, giving them enough exercise, or providing them with the health care they need. And for all pets, vaccines are an integral part of maintaining their health, as diseases don’t pick and choose which animals they infect.
Living in New York City, your pet will likely encounter many other people, pets, and wild animals, which means there are many opportunities for your pet to contract diseases and get sick. Because of how easily diseases can spread in a city, you don’t want to take any shortcuts when it comes to your pet’s health. Cutting corners in your pet’s health prevention can lead to stressful situations for you and your furry companion, so keep reading to learn about the importance and benefits of pet vaccinations.
Why are Vaccinations Important for Your Pet in NYC?
The first time you take a pet to the vet, you will likely be told they need a handful of vaccinations. This is because vaccines are crucial to maintaining the public health of animals and people. There are several specific reasons why vaccinations are important for pets living in the city, including:
- Preventing the contraction of diseases – one of the primary reasons for vaccinating your pet is to protect them from contracting diseases, which can lead to long-term health issues or be fatal. Unfortunately, we can’t always rely on others to prevent the transmission of diseases amongst pets, so don’t make the mistake of not getting your pet vaccinated.
- Preventing the spreading of diseases – while your motivation for vaccinating your pet is to safeguard them, you will also be protecting other pets. Although other pet owners in your community should also be taking the proper precautions, there are a few reasons why some pets might not be able to get vaccinated, including allergies and pre-existing conditions.
- Protecting public health – some diseases that pets can contract are known as zoonotic, which means they can spread to people. By vaccinating your pet, you’re not only are you helping to protect other pets in your community but people too.
- Meeting mandatory laws – in the United States, the rabies vaccine is required by law nationwide. However, vaccine requirements will vary state by state, so it’s essential to talk to your veterinarian about local laws and to check before traveling out of state with your pet.
- Saving money – while the immediate cost of a vaccine might seem like a lot initially, it is small compared to the treatments your pet might need if they contract a disease, not to mention the harm and distress you could cause to your pet by not protecting them from dangerous diseases.
While your main priority is to protect your pet, you will play an indispensable role in your community, safeguarding against disease and illness transmission. Below, you can learn about the common vaccines needed for pets in New York City and why they are necessary.
What Vaccinations Does Your Pet Need in NYC?
As mentioned above, the vaccines required in the state will vary. However, several core vaccines are widely recommended for all pets in New York City. These vaccines include:
- Rabies vaccine – rabies is a deadly disease for animals and people and is spread through a bite from an infected animal. Once symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal. This vaccine is mandatory for all pets.
- Distemper vaccine – distemper is a viral disease that attacks the respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems and is often fatal, so this is another core vaccine for pets.
- Parvovirus vaccine – this is an essential vaccine for dogs as it protects against a highly contagious virus. While all dogs can contract parvovirus, puppies are particularly susceptible.
- Bordetella vaccine – this vaccine helps to protect dogs from kennel cough, which is highly contagious and can spread in settings where many dogs are interacting, including dog parks, grooming facilities, kennels, and more.
- Canine influenza vaccine – canine influenza virus is very contagious and can cause respiratory issues.
- Feline leukemia vaccine – this vaccine is recommended for all cats, especially those that spend time outdoors. This viral disease can weaken a cat’s immune system, which can make them vulnerable to other illnesses.
The vaccines listed above are the most common for pets to receive in the New York City area, but there may be other non-core vaccines from which your pet can benefit from receiving. When working with your trusted veterinarian, be sure to ask about core and non-core vaccines, so you can ensure your pet gets the right ones.
How Often Should Your Pet Be Vaccinated in NYC?
The frequency at which your pet needs to be vaccinated is determined by several factors, including their life stage and exposure risk. Puppies or kittens will require different vaccines at different intervals than adult and elderly pets, while pets that don’t leave their home often may need fewer vaccines than those that do.
Additionally, each vaccine your pet requires will have different booster needs to maintain protection. Some will have long-term protection and require boosters less frequently, while others will need them more often. Because many variables can dictate when your cat or dog needs a vaccine, you should keep up with routine vet visits to ensure you don’t fall behind on your pet’s vaccines. When working with a veterinarian, you should be able to have an open dialogue to raise any questions and concerns you have about the vaccines your pet needs.
If you live in New York City, you can work with the veterinary professionals at Pure Paws Veterinary Care, conveniently located in three locations, Hudson Square, Clinton Hill, and Hell’s Kitchen, to keep your pet protected with the right vaccines.
Don’t wait to get your pet vaccinated; contact your vet today to ensure your furry friend is always protected from diseases threatening their well-being and life.
