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Vaccinations are a crucial part of your pet’s healthcare routine, protecting them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, ensuring they receive the right vaccines at the right time can help them live a long, healthy life. Why Are Vaccines Important? Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific diseases. Many of these diseases are highly contagious and can be fatal, making prevention through vaccination essential. Core and Non-Core Vaccines Some people may use the slang terms to describe vaccines such as puppy shots  or cat shots . Cats and dogs have different types of vaccines which are generally divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core Vaccines for Dogs Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle: Rabies:  A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans. Distemper:  A serious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Parvovirus:  A highly contagious and deadly virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Adenovirus (Hepatitis):  Affects the liver and can cause serious illness. Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog's lifestyle and risk factors: Bordetella (Kennel Cough):  Important for dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, or groomers. Leptospirosis:  A bacterial infection that can spread to humans and affect the kidneys and liver. Lyme Disease:  Recommended for dogs in some tick-prone areas. Canine Influenza:  Protects against respiratory illness, especially in social dogs. Core Vaccines for Cats Core vaccines are essential for all cats: Rabies:  A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can spread to humans. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper):  A highly contagious virus that affects the digestive and immune systems. Feline Herpesvirus & Calicivirus:  Causes severe respiratory infections in cats. Non-Core Vaccines for Cats Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV):  Important for cats that go outdoors or interact with other cats. When Should Pets Be Vaccinated? Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccinations starting at 8 weeks old, with booster shots given every few weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. Adult pets need regular booster vaccines throughout their lives to maintain immunity. Are Vaccines Safe for Pets? Vaccines undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are safe and effective. The vast majority of pets experience no side effects or only mild ones, such as slight soreness at the injection site or temporary lethargy. Severe reactions are extremely rare but should be reported to your veterinarian. The benefits of vaccination in preventing deadly diseases far outweigh the minimal risks involved. If you have concerns about vaccine safety, our veterinary team is happy to discuss any questions you may have. Protect Your Pet with Vaccines Vaccinations are a simple and effective way to protect your pet from dangerous diseases. If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccine schedule, our veterinary team is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your furry friend is up to date on their vaccinations!

As a responsible pet owner, one of the most important health decisions you’ll make for your dog is when to spay or neuter. Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgical procedures that help prevent unwanted litters, reduce health risks, and contribute to better behavior. But when is the best time to schedule this procedure? The answer can depend on several factors, including your dog’s breed, size, and overall health. Traditional Timing vs. New Recommendations For many years, the standard recommendation was to spay or neuter dogs around six months of age. However, recent research suggests that the best timing may vary based on a dog's breed and size. Small Dogs (Under 10 kg Adult Weight):  For smaller breeds, spaying or neutering around six months of age is generally appropriate. These dogs reach maturity faster, and early spaying/neutering can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and some health concerns. Medium Dogs (10-30 kg Adult Weight):  Dogs in this weight range may benefit from waiting until around 9 to 12 months of age before undergoing the procedure, as this allows for more balanced growth and development. Large and Giant Dogs (Over 30 kg Adult Weight):  Larger breeds mature more slowly, and early spaying or neutering may increase the risk of orthopedic issues, certain cancers, and other health concerns. Many veterinarians now recommend waiting until 12 to 18 months of age to allow full development before surgery. Health Benefits of a Spay or Neuter Spaying and neutering provide several health benefits, including: Spaying (Females):  Eliminates the risk of uterine infections (like pyometra) and significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially if done before the first heat cycle. Neutering (Males):  Reduces the risk of testicular cancer and decreases the likelihood of prostate problems later in life. Behavioral Benefits:  Neutered males are often less likely to roam, mark territory, or exhibit aggressive behaviors. Spayed females won’t go into heat, which can help prevent unwanted behaviors such as excessive vocalization and attraction of male dogs. Considerations for Delaying a Spay or Neuter While spaying and neutering provide significant benefits, delaying the procedure for large and giant breeds may reduce the risk of joint problems like hip dysplasia and certain cancers. If you choose to wait, be sure to discuss options for preventing accidental pregnancies with your veterinarian. Did You Know? Did you know that all spay's and neuters performed at Bridge City Vet Rehab receive a complimentary Laser. Laser therapy reduces inflammation and can reduce healing time. Stay tuned for our post on the benefits of Laser therapy in your pet. Talk to Your Veterinarian Every dog is unique, and the decision about when to spay or neuter should be made in consultation with your veterinarian. Factors such as breed, lifestyle, and health risks all play a role in determining the best timing for your pet. If you have questions or are ready to schedule your dog’s spay or neuter procedure, contact our clinic today! Our team is here to help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy for years to come. Bridge City Veterinary Rehabilitation