Rat Rescue :: Vaccinations

Vaccinations

Unfortunately, there are pet owners who see vaccinating their rabbit, cat or dog as a waste of time and money. Here we cover the most commonly asked questions about vaccinations.

Are vaccinations really necessary?

Yes. Annual (and in some cases, bi-annual) vaccinations are the most important preventative measure you can take to help protect your pet from a number of potentially serious and even fatal diseases. Even indoor cats and dogs need an annual vaccination, as do rabbits.

How do vaccinations work?

Vaccines contain viruses or bacteria that have been modified so that they will not cause disease. When an animal is vaccinated, two parts of the animal's immune system are stimulated, producing an immunity or 'barrier' against the bacteria or virus in question. This will destroy the disease should the animal later become exposed.

Why do I need to get my pet a 'booster' regularly?

The protection provided by a vaccine gradually declines over time. Your pet needs regular "booster" vaccinations to ensure ongoing immunity from disease as the protection provided by a vaccine declines over time. For cats and dogs, this is annually. In some areas, rabbits need a bi-annual booster.

Speak to your vet to see what vaccinations your pet requires.

When getting your pet vaccinated or having a booster, you can use the opportunity to have them thoroughly checked over. Your vet can then ensure your animal is in the best of health. You should also note that boarding kennels and catteries only accept animals that have full, up to date vaccinations and most Pet Insurers make it part of their terms and conditions that the insured animal is fully vaccinated.

If you plan to take your pet abroad, you will need to have it vaccinated against rabies.

Are vaccinations 100% safe?

Vaccinations are a medical procedure and, like all medical procedures, carries a slight risk. Vaccines have done much to reduce the sickness and death of domestic animals and the slight risk factor must be balanced against the consequences of disease.

Overall, veterinarians have found vaccination a safe procedure carrying little side-effects or risk. If my animal is vaccinated, does it guarantee they won't get the disease? Vaccination gives your pet the chance to be protected against the known serious and fatal diseases. However, no vaccination can guarantee 100% protection.

For example, in some cases, an animal may already be carrying the disease, with no symptoms.

How much do vaccinations cost?

The price varies depending on the type of animal you are having vaccinated, however, an average overall cost is around £20 for dogs and cats, around £13 for rabbits.