The vaccines we use to protect your pets have done a wonderful job over the past several decades. Diseases such as Canine and Feline Distemper and Canine Parvovirus have been reduced in incidence to the point where they are rarely seen in adult animals any more. As a result, the frequency with which these vaccines are given has been questioned. “Do these vaccines only provide immunity for one year?”, and “Is it necessary to vaccinate a pet annually?” are two of the questions that have been debated in the veterinary community. Recent reports by the American Animal Hospital Association on canine vaccination guidelines and recommendations by the American Association of Feline Practitioners on feline vaccination guidelines have indicated that certain vaccinations that were formally recommended on an annual basis may now be given every three years to mature animals. Starting in 2006, Pet Care Veterinary Hospital will begin implementing these guidelines and our clients will be receiving case-by-case vaccine recommendations for their pets.

This does not mean that all the vaccines your pet receives are recommended on an every three year basis. Studies have shown that dogs receiving vaccine protection against Canine Kennel Cough (Bordetella) need a vaccine every 6-12 months, dogs requiring protection against Lyme disease or Leptospirosis require annual vaccine boosters, and cats needing protection against Feline Leukemia Virus require annual revaccination.

As always, our primary concern is the health and well-being of your animal family and the best way to ensure this is through the annual physical exam. All of our patients will continue to receive annual written reminders for physical and dental examinations.

If you have any questions regarding this information do not hesitate to ask any of our staff members to answer your concerns.

Peter G Fisher, DVM

Colleen Fox, DVM

Herbert A Hulls, DVM

Jill D Partlow, DVM

Tony Poutous, VMD