Providing Cat and Dog Vaccinations in Hingham, VA

Cat and dog vaccinations are often your pet’s first and most effective defense against infectious diseases, many of which can be found here in Hingham, MA. Rabies, kennel cough, Lyme disease, and others are virtually always a risk for our pets, unless they have a consistent vaccination schedule.

At Old Derby Animal Hospital, our veterinary team can help you establish a schedule suited to your pet's needs and potential risk factors, such as location and travel frequency.

Protecting your pet is easier than treating them. Have they been vaccinated yet?

Overview

We believe that preventative care is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your pet’s health. There are a variety of diseases that affect animals, so proper vaccination of your pet is vital in protecting them from the many types of illnesses to which they are susceptible to.

Why are vaccinations important?

Vaccinations are vital to the health and protection of your pet, and serve as a preventive measure in combating viral diseases like Parvovirus, Parainfluenza virus, Distemper, Lyme Disease, Panleukopenia, Feline Leukemia Virus, and Rabies.

When should my pet get vaccinated?

Vaccinations are particularly important for puppies, kittens, and other young animals that have immature immune systems. Veterinary vaccinations generally begin at 6-8 weeks of age and then boostered throughout your pet’s life depending on the vaccine. Our doctors will determine the appropriate vaccination plan for your pet.

How are vaccines administered?

Vaccines help to combat diseases by exposing the pet's immune system to inactive or small amounts of a particular form of bacteria or virus. Vaccines are administered through a subcutaneous injection (under the skin), orally, or intra-nasally, depending on the vaccine.

Vaccinations are accompanied by a consultation and examination with our veterinarians to make certain that your pet's condition is stable enough to receive them. Proper and timely administration is necessary to ensure optimal protection.

Are Vaccines Safe for Pets?

Vaccines are remarkably safe for dogs and cats, though minor side effects are not uncommon. Such effects might include soreness around the injection site and possible drowsiness. Allergic reactions to vaccines are rare, and include swelling at the injection site and/or swelling of the face. We are careful not to over-vaccinate our patients, and make a point to observe them after they’ve been given their vaccinations to check for signs of a reaction.

Our Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

Our practice carries all the vaccines necessary for giving dogs and cats complete disease protection throughout their lives:

Dog Vaccinations

• Rabies

• DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza)

• Kennel cough (Bordetella)

• Lyme

• Leptospirosis

• Bivalent canine influenza vaccine (required at our kennel facility and at many others in the area)

Cat Vaccinations

• Rabies

• FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia)

• FeLV (leukemia)

Which Vaccines are Necessary for My Pet?

Rabies and DHPP for dogs, and rabies and FVRCP for cats are necessary for the health and safety of your pet. Rabies is a lethal virus that can spread from animals to humans, and there is usually little chance of recovery. Canine distemper, parvovirus, and feline leukemia can also be fatal, especially if the pet is very young, very old, or has a weakened immune system.

Beyond the core vaccines we recommend, we will need to understand your pet’s health history and lifestyle before going more in-depth. Once we’ve identified their risk factors, we can help you tailor a vaccine plan according to their needs.