Vaccines have been so successful at protecting pets from deadly, contagious diseases, that a once-common illness, canine distemper, is now rarely seen in dogs. Despite their proven success at keeping pets healthy, there is a lot of misinformation concerning pet vaccines. Our team at Alum Rock Animal Hospital in San Jose looks at why vaccines are so important for your pet.
A Legal Requirement
Many places, like the state of California, require all dogs over four months old to have a rabies vaccination. Many other states require cats to be vaccinated against rabies as well. These laws are in place not only for pet preventative care, but to keep people safe. Rabies can jump from pets to people and is not curable.
Cost-Effective
Vaccines are a less expensive way of keeping your pet healthy than treating your pet if he or she catches a contagious disease. For example, dogs can survive an attack of canine parvovirus, but treatment requires an extensive stay at a veterinary clinic.
Better Chances of Surviving Surgery
When a pet is seriously ill or injured, its body cannot effectively fight diseases that may be about. Despite our staff’s best efforts at keeping our facilities clean, there are always sick animals in the environment. There is a small chance that your pet could contract a contagious illness when going to the veterinarian’s office for surgery. Being up to date on vaccines greatly reduces this chance. This also protects the pets at our office during your pet’s stay for surgery.
Better Access to Pet Hotels and Boarding Facilities
There are more hotels than ever accepting pets, making it easy and fun for pet parents to travel with every member of the family. Even if you cannot bring your pet with you, you can board your pet at places like Alum Rock Animal Hospital in San Jose. However, we require that all pets are up to date with their vaccinations.
Get Your Pet Vaccinated in San Jose, CA
If you have questions about the benefits of pet vaccines and live in the San Jose area, contact Alum Rock Animal Hospital to speak with our veterinarian. Call our team today at (408) 258-2735 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.