Vaccinations at 608 Vets
Here at 608 Vets we believe that vaccinations are an important part of protecting your pets from severely harmful, yet preventable diseases and are an essential part of responsible pet care.
Dogs, cats and rabbits are susceptible to a number of life-threatening diseases, but scientific advances and the introduction of immunisation has been very effective in reducing the number of cases dramatically. It is tempting to assume that they are no longer a threat to our pets as we hear little about them, but they still do remain a constant danger, meaning the correct vaccination programme is the best way to keep your pet safe.
Book a vaccination appointment
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines contain harmless (either weakened or dead) variants of the viruses and other infectious agents.
When an animal is vaccinated the immune system in the body responds by generating a protective mechanism through the formation of antibodies. If the animal then becomes exposed to the actual disease at a later date, those antibodies will prevent the disease from developing.
The type of vaccines 608 Vets recommend will be based on your pet’s lifestyle, risk factors and current guidance. Modern vaccines give protection to multiple diseases with just one or two injections.
It is important to remember though that vaccines don’t give lifelong immunity and that is why regular booster vaccinations are recommended. It is also an excellent opportunity for your pet to have a full health check. We send out reminders for all vaccinations, please contact us to book an appointment.
Find out more about cat, dog and rabbit vaccinations below:
Dog Vaccinations Cat Vaccinations Rabbit Vaccinations
Vaccinations FAQ
Why does my pet need to have vaccinations every 12 months?
Depending on the disease that your pet is being vaccinated against, the period of time that they are protected will differ. Certain diseases, such as leptospirosis in dogs and flu in cats only carry around 12 months protection, which is why a yearly booster is recommended. Even though you pet might be being vaccinated every 12 months, it is not always against the same diseases – your vaccination card will show you which diseases they are getting boosters for each visit. Visiting us every 12 months for vaccinations also means your pet gets a full annual health check, which is equally important!
Does my pet need to be vaccinated if they live inside?
Although your pet may not go outside, it is still possible for diseases to be brought into the house. This could be via soil on a dirty boot or via other wildlife that could enter the home. Therefore, having full vaccination can provide the protection needed for all circumstances, meaning you don’t have to take the risk.
I have heard that vaccines are risky and to avoid them – is that true?
Any veterinary procedure that is performed can carry some sort of risk, however in the case of vaccinations, it is important to remember that for the majority of pets the benefits of being vaccinated greatly outweighs the risks. Vaccination reactions are rare and where they do occur, they are mostly short-term and mild. Reactions of this nature show that the vaccine is effectively stimulating the immune system.
The team at 608 Vets are always happy to talk to you about the benefits and risks associated with vaccinating your pet to help identify the most suitable strategy as part of their wider preventative healthcare programme.
Are there any schemes or offers to help with covering the cost of my pets’ vaccinations?
Our Pet Health for Life Plan plan offers the best value way to vaccinate your pet to ensure they have the preventative health protection they need over the course of their lifetime. Being a member allows you the opportunity to spread the cost over 12 months whilst also receiving discounts on other services at 608 Vets.
If you would like further information on vaccination programmes for your pet, or our Pet Health for Life Plan, please contact us.
How is lungworm infection diagnosed?
With advances in testing techniques we are now able to diagnose lung worm more readily.
A blood test can be performed, or a faecal sample can be sent away to identify if the patient is shedding the larvae.
Can lungworm infection be treated and prevented?
If a dog is showing symptoms of lung worm infection it will need supportive care and intensive treatment.
There are a couple of treatments also licensed which can kill the worms and this will also be given. However, in some cases the condition can be fatal.
There are only a couple of licensed products which have been shown to prevent lungworm infection. At 608 Vets, the products used in our Pet Health for Life Plan ensure this prevention is included.
Please note
Many regular worming tablets are not active against lung worm, so these cannot be relied upon. If you are unsure which products are safe in preventing lungworm infection, please talk to one of our vets or nurses.
