Vaccination Protocol
By Jennie Braaksma, CVT

To ensure the best possible health for your new puppy or kitten, they need protection from several diseases that can potentially be dangerous, some even life-threatening.  Therefore, it is advisable to vaccinate against these diseases, to prevent your pet from even picking them up at all.

Feline distemper (FVRCP) is a combination vaccination providing protection from viral rhinotracheitis, calcili, and panleukopenia.  These are all viral diseases, spread from cat to cat, that can cause severe respiratory problems.

Canine distemper (DA2PPV + CV) provides protection from distemper, adenovirus (2 strains), parainfluenze, parvovirus, and coronavirus  In addition to causing respiratory problems, some of these diseases can also cause severe intestinal issues.  Booster vaccinations of canine distemper also include protection from leptospirosis.

Rabies is a potentially fatal virus transmitted in the saliva of infected animals.  Vaccination of rabies is required by law for dogs, and certainly advisable for cats because of its dangers.

Here is a brief overview of when to vaccinate your new puppy or kitten.

The distemper vaccination is boostered annually. The rabies vaccination is boostered in one year, then every three years.

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These articles are for your educational enjoyment. They may not be republished without the permission of Marsh View Veterinary Clinic. Please contact us at 920-326-3020 or 920-326-5738 if you have any questions.