Proper pet care requires a lot of work. It means keeping track of multiple things that others don’t usually think of. One crucial aspect pet owners should keep in mind is their pet vaccinations. Vaccinations allow us to keep our pets protected from several diseases, infections, and other health problems. Not to mention that some pet vaccinations are mandated by law.
We do not offer pet vaccination services here at our emergency animal hospital, but the team at COCEAH does mean to share whatever information we can to help pet parents plan out their pet’s care as efficiently as possible.
Check out below all the information we have so you can plan on your pet’s vaccination. This information is valid primarily for cats and dogs. If you have other pets, get in touch with a qualified veterinarian about which steps to take to ensure your pet’s best state of health.
Are Pet Vaccinations Mandatory in California?
Some vaccinations are mandatory for pets here in California. Please keep in mind that all dogs four months or older have to have their vaccinations for rabies. Cats should also have their vaccinations for feline rabies.
Local recommendations do not consider animals labeled as livestock, though authorities would recommend that animals that come into frequent contact with humans should also receive their vaccinations.
Here in our state, pet owners should be mindful of the benefits obtained thanks to proper pet vaccinations. Unfortunately, we know of cases in which household pets are attacked by local wildlife and become infected with rabies. We’re here to help your pet in case of lacerations and treat open wounds, but your pet will be considerably safer from other health complications if they don’t have their vaccinations up to date.
The general recommendations consider dogs 4 months and older, but regardless of the age at which the dog first received their vaccination, they will have to receive a second vaccination one year later and follow a three-year booster schedule after that.
Likewise, local authorities strongly encourage cat owners to vaccinate their cats against rabies because of a considerable increase in reported cases of domestic rabid cats. Cats should receive their triennial rabies vaccine when they are first three months old, another dose twelve months later, and a booster every 36 months after that.
How to Get Your Dog’s Rabies Vaccination Certificate?
California-licensed veterinarians or veterinary technicians under the direct supervision of a California-licensed veterinarian can administer a rabies vaccine. Dog owners should verify that their puppies 4 months or older have also received their vaccination from a licensed veterinarian with a USDA-licensed and Department-of-Health-Services-approved vaccine and secure a license for their puppy through their local city or county ordinance.
Your dog’s vaccination license consists of a tag with the following information:
- Name, address, and phone number of the dog’s owner.
- Description of the dog:
- Breed,
- Color,
- Age,
- Sex.
- Date of vaccination/immunization.
- Type of rabies vaccine received.
- Name of manufacturer, product, and lot number of the vaccine received.
What Are Some Important Dog Vaccinations?
Well, we want to thank you for sticking with us and giving your dog’s vaccinations the attention they require. You may initially think that taking your dog repeatedly to their trusted vet is inconvenient, but shielding your loved pet from dangerous and potentially lethal diseases is invaluable.
Check out which vaccinations are required for all dogs and which ones are optional.
Canine Distemper
Dogs and other animals may suffer from distemper as they become exposed to the paramyxovirus virus that spreads thanks to droplets expelled from the bodies of other animals during coughing and sneezing. Please pay attention as this disease can also spread when pets share food and water bowls.
The disease creates respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system complications. There is no cure for distemper, and our options are limited to supportive care that focuses on preventing secondary infections or controlling some of the most worrying symptoms. The vaccine can help your pet overcome the symptoms without additional complications.
Parvovirus
Parvo is a very common infection that can affect all dogs. Unvaccinated dogs and puppies are the most vulnerable groups, especially those four months old and younger.
The infection creates eating disorders, severe vomiting, fever, diarrhea, and dehydration. This infection can be lethal and effective treatment is limited to a 48-to-72-hour window, so it’s crucial you take your puppy to the emergency vet as soon as you notice the symptoms. Professional help to control symptoms and maintain your dog properly hydrated is vital. All dogs should receive their parvovirus vaccine dose when they’re between 14 and 16 weeks of age.
Get Help From a Newport Beach Emergency Vet
The whole team here at COCEAH wants to help all pet owners coming from nearby and far away cities overcome their pet emergencies and return home safely. Please give us a call to prepare for your arrival and plan out the best care possible. You can find us open through the night and on all holidays to offer your pet the best emergency vet care services available.
