Protecting Your
New Puppy or Kitten
Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of life’s greatest joys. Their tiny paws, curious eyes, and playful energy fill our homes and hearts with love. One of the most important things we can do is to start them out right by ensuring they receive the proper vaccinations.
We understand that your pet is unique and that no single vaccine protocol will be ideal for all pets in all situations. At Caring Hearts Animal Hospital, our goal is to work with you to develop a vaccination schedule and ongoing booster routine that considers your pet’s lifestyle, overall health, and risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Vaccines help pets live longer, healthier lives, and protecting your pet is our number one priority.
Just like babies, young animals are vulnerable to diseases because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccinations help train their immune systems to recognize and fight off dangerous infections.
Without vaccines, your pet could be at risk for serious illnesses that could lead to lifelong health issues or even be fatal. By vaccinating your pet, you’re not just protecting them—you’re also helping to prevent the spread of these diseases to other animals and even humans.
Call (704) 893-2799 or use our online form to book an appointment for your pet!
What Diseases Do Vaccines Protect Against?
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has developed guidelines to help veterinarians and pet owners understand which vaccines are necessary for puppies and kittens. These guidelines are based on years of research and experience. As a long standing accredited member of AAHA we follow their protocols. The vaccination guidelines recommended by AAHA are based on the latest scientific evidence and are designed to provide the highest level of protection with the fewest risks.
For PUPPIES some of the most critical vaccines include:
Distemper: A highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It can be fatal, especially in young dogs.
Parvovirus: This virus attacks the intestines and can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. It is particularly deadly in puppies.
Canine Adenovirus: Causes infectious hepatitis, which affects the liver and can lead to serious illness or death.
Rabies: A virus that affects the brain and is always fatal once symptoms appear. Rabies is also a risk to humans, making vaccination essential.
For KITTENS some of the key vaccines include:
Feline Panleukopenia: Often called feline distemper, this virus is highly contagious and can be fatal. It affects the gastrointestinal tract and immune system.
Feline Herpesvirus and Calicivirus: These viruses cause respiratory infections, which can lead to long-term health problems in cats.
Rabies: Just as in dogs, rabies is deadly for cats and a serious risk to humans.
When Should Vaccinations Begin?
The timing of vaccinations is important. Puppies and kittens typically begin their vaccination series at about 6-8 weeks of age. They will need several rounds of vaccines over the next few months to ensure their immune systems are fully prepared to protect them as they grow. Because puppies and kittens are born with maternal antibodies they have some protection from their mothers when they are born. Each animal loses this protection at a time unique to them but we know it is between 6 and 16 weeks. That is why vaccinating in a series is so important. The mother’s protection must drop in order for the baby’s body to take over and build immunity of their own.
Our veterinarians will provide a vaccination schedule tailored to your pet’s needs. Sticking to this schedule is crucial — missing a dose or delaying vaccines can leave your pet vulnerable during the most critical period of their development.
A Lifelong Commitment
Vaccinating your puppy or kitten is just the beginning. As they grow, they will need regular check-ups and booster shots to ensure their immunity stays strong. By committing to their health now, you’re setting the foundation for a long, happy life together.
Remember, the love you have for your pet is unconditional, and their health and happiness depend on the decisions you make today. Protect them, love them, and watch them thrive.