Pet vaccinations are one of the most important elements to taking care of your pet. It is necessary to know when to get these done so that your pet is as healthy as possible. Each animal differs when it comes to types and times, and for owners of multiple types of pets this can be very confusing.
Puppies and kittens require various vaccinations, including parvo, starting at about six weeks of age. At three to four week intervals a puppy, or kitten, should have received the last shot by the time they are 16 weeks old. Ferrets should also receive their first vaccination at six weeks old, and the last of the series should be done by the time they reach 16 weeks. After that, your pet’s veterinarian can help you to determine how often and when your pet should receive vaccinations.
Horses also require a number of vaccinations. These are generally done on an annually to bi-annually basis depending on a horse’s individual needs. A veterinarian can help you to figure out the best way to go about scheduling these vaccinations for your horse.
Photo by Nguyen Hoangnam
Birds on the other hand should receive a vaccination for polyomavirus. The initial series of this vaccination is two shots given two to three weeks apart, and after that they should receive the shot yearly.
Despite common misconceptions rodents, reptiles, or amphibians do not commonly carry diseases, and do not require vaccinations. In the United States rabbits do not require vaccinations either. However, it is still important to bring your animals to the veterinarian for regular care.