Vaccines are a hot topic in today’s society, for pets and humans alike. Have you ever wondered why your veterinarian only recommends and recognizes their vaccines and not those given by your new puppy’s breeder, or those that you bought over the counter and gave at home? There is often a preconceived notion that this is so veterinarians can make more money. The truth is, we just want to make sure that your pet and our community is properly protected from preventable and zoonotic diseases. Areas of particular concern when veterinarians encounter vaccines that they cannot validate include the following.

  • Supply chain and storage. Proper supply chain and storage are essential to ensuring vaccine effectiveness. Veterinarians are careful to obtain vaccines from suppliers that understand the importance of valid supply chain procurement, shipping and storage to ensure that the vaccine given to your pet is safe and effective.
  • Effectiveness. Did you know that viruses and bacteria are always evolving new ways to infect and sicken your pet? Good vaccine companies know this and are constantly monitoring the changes in viruses and bacteria so they can modify vaccines to make sure they remain effective. All vaccines need to be given in a certain way and at certain intervals to stimulate your pet’s immune system properly to protect against disease.
  • Legal requirements. Did you know that only a licensed veterinarian can legally vaccinate an animal against rabies? This is to ensure that the vaccine is given and documented correctly. There is no cure for rabies and humans can also contract this deadly disease. The state of Florida requires rabies vaccinations for all cats, dogs and ferrets 4 months of age and older.
  • Liability. A veterinarian can only validate vaccines they have given. We cannot validate that your unknown rabies vaccine will be adequate to protect a family from deadly rabies if your pet is exposed to rabid wildlife. We also cannot validate that your unknown “7 in one” vaccine will protect your dog from distemper or parvovirus.

We want your pet to be healthy and happy for as long as possible. Your pet’s veterinarian will tailor vaccine recommendations to the lifestyle of each of your pets. The vaccines that we recommend are always in your pet’s best interest. In an effort to help with vaccine and preventative pet care affordability, we now offer care plans with a low monthly payment. If you are interested in more information or would like to discuss your pets vaccinations with a member of our staff, please call us at Caring Hands Animal Hospital of Lake City or Live Oak!