At Baldwin Animal Hospital, we value and encourage preventative care. We perform thorough annual examinations and provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions regarding your pet’s needs. As a part of our wellness programs, we provide tailored vaccinations for your pet according to their specific needs.
Vaccination is the key to protecting your dog against common infectious diseases. Many diseases that were once considered fatal can be prevented by proper vaccination. We do not believe in the one size fits all approach.
We will design a customized vaccine program for your dog based on age, lifestyle, and risk of disease exposure. Our vaccine protocols are based on the most up to date scientific knowledge. Our specific vaccines are chosen for efficacy and safety. We recommend vaccinating every dog against Distemper, Parvovirus and Rabies. Other vaccines including Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease, and Canine Infectious Influenza are given based on individual risk assessment. The frequency of vaccination will vary from annual to every 3 years, depending on your pets age and the specific vaccine.
Young puppies are usually given their first set of vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age. Booster shots are given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Rabies vaccination is required by law since it is transmissible to people and 100% fatal. You will receive a Rabies Certificate after this vaccination.
Vaccination is the key to protecting your cat against common infectious diseases. Many diseases that were once considered fatal to cats are now preventable due to modern vaccines. We will design a customized vaccine program for your cat based on age, lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor) and risk of disease exposure. We follow the guidelines set by the American Association of Feline Practitioners and the American Animal Hospital Association. Our specific vaccines are chosen for safety and efficacy. We recommend vaccinating all adult cats against Feline Respiratory Disease, Feline Distemper and Rabies. Rabies vaccine is required by law in New York State. For outdoor cats we also recommend vaccinating against Feline Leukemia Virus which is a transmissible and highly fatal virus. The frequency of vaccine will vary from 1 to 3 years based on age and type of vaccine.
Young kittens are usually given their first set of vaccines at 6-8 weeks of age. Boosters are given every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. We recommend testing all new cats for Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Feline Leukemia vaccine is recommended for all young kittens due to their high susceptibility to the disease.
Pets occasionally experience adverse reactions to vaccinations. The most common side effects are minor muscle soreness or malaise. This is usually brief and self limiting and does not require treatment. On rare occasions we may see more severe reactions like hives, swelling of the face or vomiting. This could indicate an allergic reaction and may require immediate medical attention. An occasional temporary swelling may be seen at a vaccine location. Swellings that do not disappear should be rechecked.
Please call us today to learn more about vaccinations or to schedule an appointment for your pet.
