Vaccination

Vaccines are health products, produced in laboratories that help your pet to fight future infections.

What you should know about vaccination?

Vaccinations protect your pet from (against?) many highly contagious diseases like rabies, distemper, cat flu and a variety of other diseases. Vaccination will not cure an already sick pet. Only healthy pets may be vaccinated. A veterinarian or a veterinary nurse administers vaccines.

Are there any risks?

Although pets respond well to vaccines, some may become feverish and have a reduced appetite. These conditions are mild and short-term. Failure to vaccinate leaves your pet vulnerable to fatal illnesses that could be prevented.

Should puppies and kittens be vaccinated?

Very young puppies and kittens are particularly vulnerable to diseases. This is especially true as the natural immunity provided in their mother’s milk gradually wears off.

Against what disease should I have my pet vaccinated?

There are vaccinations available for the most common diseases of dogs and cats.

The difference between VACCINATION (prevention) and TREATMENT (healing).

Both vaccinations and treatments are being administered through an injection. It is important to know the difference between vaccination and treatment.

What is VACCINATION?

Vaccinations prevent animals from becoming sick.

Only healthy animals may be vaccinated.

During vaccination, a small quantity of weakened virus is given to a dog or cat. The body then produces antibodies (soldiers) against that particular disease. Whenever the animal is exposed to that disease in the future, the antibodies will kill the virus before it could make the animal sick.

Vaccination cannot cure a sick animal.

What is TREATMENT?

Treatment is given to already sick animals. Antibiotics for bacterial (germs) infection, and dewormer tablets in the case of a worm infestation. Dipping will be recommended for fleas, ticks and mange.

Taken directly from the South African Veterinary Association booklet “ Your Best Friend , What you need to know” by Erna Klopper