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Immunizing your pet is one of the most important ways to protect them against harmful diseases and improve their overall quality of life. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, these are the top benefits: 

1.  Immunity from diseases 
   
   
2.  Less money spent treating preventable illnesses 
   
   
3.  Reduced transmission rates 
   
   
4.  Protection against viruses spread by wildlife  
   
   
5.  Compliance with local and state vaccine ordinances 

Fleas not only cause itchy bites, but they can also transmit tapeworms and other parasites. 

Monthly preventative treatments that you coordinate with your veterinary team can help protect your pet. Plus, this routine pet car can also prevent ticks, which can spread diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. 

Most dogs and cats should be given “core vaccinations” that protect them against highly transmittable and/or fatal diseases.

Cats should receive core vaccines every three years for diseases such as rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, rabies and feline distemper. Dogs, on the other hand, should be vaccinated every one to three years against canine distemper, rabies, adenovirus and Bordetella.  

You should always talk with your vet to determine the right vaccine schedule for your pet's health, as factors including breed, age, health, lifestyle and travel can impact their recommendation. 

For most pets, immunization effectively prevents diseases or decreases the severity of symptoms. 

When it comes to immunizing your pet, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Vaccines protect our furry friends, families and communities from potentially life-threatening diseases. And most pets respond positively with few side effects. Adverse reactions are rare – and if they do occur, they’re usually mild and short-lived without further need for veterinary care. 

Just like human babies, puppies and kittens are highly susceptible to infectious diseases while they are building up their immune systems. While nursing, they’re protected by antibodies in their mother’s milk. But this protection isn’t long-lasting, so a series of vaccines is usually recommended to keep them safe.  

Vaccinating your pet is an essential part of their preventative care and wellness. Make sure they’re up to date with their immunizations and schedule an appointment with a licensed vet if needed. A healthy pet is a happy pet – and there’s nothing better than helping your best friend live their best life.