If you are a new pet owner, you may hear other pet owners talk about getting their pets their shots. The shots they are referring to are pet vaccinations. These vaccinations, much like their human counterparts, are to prevent diseases and issues with the pets. In many cases, this preventative step can prevent illnesses and diseases that affect humans as well. Before you overlook getting pet vaccinations, there are a few things you need to know.
Required for Rentals
If you are renting your home, then you may find pet vaccinations are required by your landlord or property management team. There are several reasons for this. One of the most important vaccines for pets is the rabies vaccine. If your pet does not have this vaccination, and they bite someone, it can result in the pet having to be euthanized. Many rental companies require that this and other vaccinations are done in order to protect your pet, you, and the other renters. You will need the vaccination paperwork on a routine basis to prove the vaccinations were given and to show which vet performed them.
Location Based Vaccines
Unlike human vaccinations, required pet vaccinations depend greatly on location. Depending on where you live in the country, there will be different pet vaccinations required. Some of these vaccinations are considered core vaccinations, such as rabies. Other vaccinations are considered non-core vaccinations and may be specific to location. These vaccinations include influenza, Lyme disease, and various combination vaccines that can cover three or more diseases at once.
Insurance Coverage
You may be concerned how to pay for these various vaccinations. The truth is, most pet insurance will cover the basic or generally required core pet vaccinations. If you do not have pet insurance, then you may find clinics in your area offering discounted vaccination services. In many cases, the clinics offering this type of discounted vaccine service will combine it with spay and neuter services, as well. If you have pet insurance, you will find that the insurance will cover specific vaccinations on a routine basis. For example, they will cover the vaccinations once per year or once every three years.
These are just a few of the things you should know as a new pet owner about pet vaccinations. If you are ready to have your pet vaccinated, contact your local animal hospital or pet clinic to schedule an appointment. Vets, like those at Apple Valley Animal Hospital, can answer questions about when the vaccinations should be renewed and which vaccinations are required for your area.
