Whether you have a dog or cat, fish or hamster, or perhaps a beloved parrot that sings you lullaby’s and keeps you entertained for hours on end, you want them to be healthy and to have the best life possible. Unfortunately, just as we do, our pets too get ill and struggle with diseases, but visiting a veterinarian seattle wa regularly may help to catch signs and symptoms early and will create a more manageable care routine for your pet. Our pets are similar to having children. They require frequent feeding, hydration, a comfortable and warm place to sleep, and adequate playtime and exercise to be healthy. Starting with a puppy or kitten, it will be evident just how much time they require and how much of our attention they need to thrive. But, it is all worth it when you develop a friendship and companionship for life, so even in the moments when you feel completely alone, there is another soul beside you that loves you unconditionally.
Alpha Animal Hospital prides itself on the level of expertise, care and compassion it has for your pets and all animals. Your beloved pet will be in the best hands.
Why Vaccinations Are Important For Your Pets
There are many reasons to have your pets properly vaccinated and dewormed at a veterinary practice ithaca ny, but the most important reason is to preserve the life of your pet. Preventing illnesses and diseases and stopping the spread between animals is a vital part of ensuring your pets and other animals remain healthy and for pet owners and the public to stay safe from diseases spread from animals to humans. Take a look at these common illnesses and diseases prevented by vaccinations:
- Canine Parvovirus – commonly affects young dogs (six weeks to six months) but can affect dogs of any age. Parvovirus is a serious disease that spreads through infected stools or from dog to dog and is highly resistant. The virus can remain in the environment for months, potentially infecting several dogs who have not been vaccinated against the virus. Symptoms include a loss of appetite, lethargy, severe vomiting and diarrhea.
- Canine Distemper – a serious disease that is often fatal. Dogs who survive will have permanent damage to their nervous systems, sense of smell, sight and hearing. The spread of the virus comes through the secretions from the eyes and nose, vomit or stool and is highly contagious. Symptoms include discharge from the eyes and nose, coughing, respiratory issues, fever, weight loss and neurological symptoms such as seizures. Vaccinations for canine distemper are incredibly important.
- Cat Flu – feline herpesvirus causes upper respiratory tract infections and is widespread and easily transmitted. Infected cats are typically life-long carriers of the virus and will spread the virus to other cats and have flare-ups of symptoms during times of stress. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, sneezing or coughing and a discharge from the eyes and nose.
- Parainfluenza – similar to kennel cough, parainfluenza is typically a contributor to kennel cough but is not severe on its own. It causes upper respiratory tract infection and may lead to pneumonia in puppies or chronic bronchitis in older dogs. The virus is spread through contact with the nasal secretions and is aggravated by high humidity or exposure to drafts. Symptoms include a cough, runny nose, lethargy and a low-grade fever.
In addition to vaccines, it is also important to deworm your pets to reduce internal and external parasites that harm your pet’s health. Parasites are easily transmissible to pet owners, so owners and the family should also do regular deworming.
Early vaccinations are a vital step in ensuring your pets are healthy and prevent infection from other animals. Visit a animal critical care Seattle WA regularly to ensure your pet is thriving and trust Alpha Animal Hospital for all your pet care needs.
