Comprehensive Vet Care for Cats and Dogs: Vaccinations in MA
Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth is a good place to start if you want your cat or dog to have a good vet experience. Our services are relied upon by many pet owners in Fall River and throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Vaccines and preventatives against parasites like ticks and fleas are part of seasonal pet care advice, but so are annual checkups and ongoing care that is timed around your pet’s individual needs. Depending on your pet’s environment and routine, additional vaccinations may be recommended in addition to the few that are mandated by law in New England. Consultation with a skilled veterinarian is recommended for this purpose.
Vaccination Requirements in MA for Dogs
Puppies start off with a series of vaccinations designed to protect them from the most common and potentially fatal diseases. Since rabies can be transmitted through the blood or saliva of infected animals, including wild animals like bats, foxes, and raccoons, the state of Massachusetts mandates that all dogs be vaccinated against the disease. Our Dartmouth animal hospital administers the first rabies vaccine to puppies at the 16-week checkup. The distemper/parvo/hepatitis/parainfluenza/adenovirus combination vaccine is administered before any of the others. Illnesses caused by viruses like distemper and parvovirus, which have a high mortality rate, are a major cause for concern. The primary dose of these vaccines is administered at eight weeks, with additional doses at 12 and 16 weeks.
Puppies who will be attending puppy classes, going to the dog park or pet store, or going anywhere else where there may be other dogs are also encouraged to get vaccinated against canine influenza. Proof of a current canine influenza vaccination is required if you plan to take your dog to the groomer or leave them in boarding overnight for any reason. As with kennel cough, or Bordatella, vaccinations are required for groomers and boarding facilities, and are recommended for dogs that will be in public or social situations with other dogs. Leptospirosis and Lyme disease are both contagious diseases that can be spread to dogs through contact with the urine of wild animals like squirrels, raccoons, mice, and even domesticated animals. A high probability of encountering canines exists here.
Vaccination Requirements in MA for Cats
Rabies is a fatal disease that can be spread through an animal’s saliva or its blood, so the state of Massachusetts mandates that all cats be vaccinated against it. Rabies can be spread to your cat from local wildlife such as raccoons, bats, opossums, and rodents. Cats that live indoors only are still vulnerable if they ever escape and wander outdoors, or if any wild animals manage to make their way inside. Kittens receive their initial rabies vaccination at the age of 16 weeks. In addition, Feline Distemper (also known as FVRCP) is a major concern because it is highly contagious and can even be fatal to cats. Kittens start receiving their vaccinations at eight weeks of age, with additional doses given at 12 and 16 weeks. Our vaccine, available at Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth and convenient for cat owners in Fall River and the surrounding area, protects against the herpesvirus and calicivirus that cause 80-90% of upper respiratory infections in cats.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is another fatal disease spread by infected cats’ saliva and nasal secretions. Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is most commonly spread through prolonged contact with infected cats, bite wounds, and even mother-to-kitten transmission. Cats infected with FeLV typically don’t make it past the three-year mark because of how deadly the disease is. While outdoor and partially indoor cats are at the greatest risk, it may be worthwhile to vaccinate even strictly indoor cats. To ensure your cat’s safety throughout its life, discuss these vaccines and other seasonal pet tips with your veterinarian.
Dependable Southeastern Massachusetts Veterinarian
Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth has served pet owners in the Southcoast area since 1975, and in that time we’ve worked hard to expand our expertise, our technological capabilities, and our range of services. Not only do we provide comprehensive veterinary care for cats and dogs, but we also treat rabbits, Guinea pigs, rats, mice, hamsters, and gerbils, among other small animals. Call us at 508-996-3731 to speak with a knowledgeable member of our veterinary team about setting up an appointment. If you have any inquiries or would like more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.