are they really essential? What you absolutely need to know!

Why vaccines are so important for our pets

Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing serious and contagious diseases. They work by stimulating your pet's immune system, preparing it to defend itself against specific pathogens.

• Protection against deadly diseases : Vaccines help prevent diseases such as typhus in cats or parvovirus in dogs, which are often fatal.
• A collective responsibility : Vaccination reduces the spread of disease within the animal population, thereby protecting unvaccinated animals, such as young puppies and kittens.
• A long-term gain : Prevention always costs less than treatment. Treatments for preventable illnesses can cost a lot of money.

Essential vaccines: the ones your pet can't ignore

Some vaccines are considered essential because of their effectiveness and the severity of the diseases they prevent. Here are the essential vaccines for each type of animal.

Essential vaccines for dogs

• Distemper : Highly contagious and often fatal, it attacks the nervous system and vital organs.
• La parvovirose : A viral disease causing hemorrhagic diarrhea and severe dehydration.
• Rubarth's hepatitis : A viral infection that affects the liver and can be fatal without prompt treatment.
• Leptospirosis : A bacterial disease transmitted by rodent urine, which can be transmitted to humans.

Essential vaccines for cats

• Typhus (feline panleukopenia) : Extremely contagious and often fatal, it causes vomiting and severe dehydration.
• Coryza : A complex of respiratory diseases that can be serious, especially in kittens and older cats.
• The rage : Required in certain contexts, such as when traveling or participating in exhibitions.

Optional vaccines: Are they necessary for your pet?

Optional vaccines are not essential for all animals, but they can be crucial depending on your companion's lifestyle and environment.

• Kennel cough (dogs) : Recommended for dogs attending kennels, kennel clubs or exhibitions.
• Feline leukosis (cats) : Essential for cats with access to the outdoors, as this disease is transmitted by direct contact with other cats.
• Piroplasmosis and Lyme disease (dogs) : These vaccines are useful in areas where ticks are common.

Myths and fears around vaccines: let's sort out the truth from the fiction

Some owners are hesitant to vaccinate their animals due to fears or preconceived ideas. It is important to understand what is myth and what is actually true.

• “Vaccines can make you sick” : After a vaccination, your pet may show slight signs such as fatigue or a mild fever. These side effects are rare and temporary.
• “My pet stays indoors, he does not need vaccinations” : Even an animal that does not go outside can be exposed to pathogens through its owners or other animals.
• “Annual boosters are not necessary” : Some vaccines actually require boosters to maintain their effectiveness. It depends on the vaccine and the frequency of exposure to the risk.

How to establish a vaccination schedule adapted to your pet

Each animal is unique, and its vaccination program must take into account several factors:

1. Age : Young animals require a primary vaccination followed by regular boosters. Adults should maintain protection with boosters.
2. Lifestyle : An indoor cat will not have the same needs as a cat who goes outside regularly. Likewise, a dog living in the countryside may require vaccinations against tick-borne diseases.
3. Geographic region : Certain diseases, such as piroplasmosis or leishmaniasis, are more present in certain areas.

vaccines, a responsible choice to protect your pet and others

Vaccines for dogs and cats are not just a precaution, they are a responsibility. By vaccinating your companion, you protect their health, avoid unnecessary suffering and contribute to a collective effort to limit the spread of diseases.