We do not always see the need to have our animals vaccinated, especially if they don’t leave the house. On the other hand, the last two years have shown us that pandemics can occur at any time, and that the only possible immunity is through vaccination. Well, here are 8 reasons that will convince you of the need for vaccination for your beloved pets.
- Your pet can transmit diseases to you.
You could catch certain diseases, parasites or infections through your pet – these are called zoonoses. A bite, scratch or contact with the skin, mucous membranes, saliva, or feces from your four-legged companion are considered methods of transmission.
- Your animal could escape.
No one wants that, but your little protégé may have a sudden urge to explore nature and escape the moment you open the door. An unfortunate contact could cause him to contract a virus.
- You carry diseases with you.
Even if your companion always stays at home or hardly goes out, you could bring in diseases that are not contractible by humans. Did you walk through a place where a contaminated mammal could have gone before you? Your soles could harbour bacteria. Have you touched an object that has been in contact with another animal? Same thing! It's better not to take risks to keep your pet healthy for a long time!
- Uncontrollable elements:
Are you planning to visit the groomer with your pet? Are you leaving for a week and your pet needs to be sent to a kennel? You should be aware that some diseases, such as kennel cough and feline rhinotracheitis, can be transmitted by things you cannot control. These can end up in the air that your dog or cat will breathe and so then will start the symptoms.
- You will prevent the worst.
It’s best not to take the risk that your pet, a member of your family, or yourself get sick. Since some diseases can be fatal, we prefer to do prevention rather than treat for an important medical condition that could have been avoided.
- Prevention versus medical care:
It’s a question of costs. You thought you’d save a few dollars this year by not vaccinating your pet? If he should unfortunately catch a virus or a disease, for lack of not having received his vaccines, know that the cost of care would easily exceed that of the vaccines you wanted to avoid in the first place... In addition to causing unnecessary inconvenience and pain to your furry companion.
- Ah, travelling…
Would you like to go abroad with your faithful companion? Many countries ask that your dog or cat’s vaccination be up to date in order to avoid spreading diseases across borders. No vaccines, no holidays. Do you plan to put your pet in a kennel while you travel? Most kennels will require the up-to-date vaccination of your darling pet.
- You will help eradicate certain diseases.
Humans managed to eradicate smallpox in 1981 through vaccination. We find the same concept in animals! Panleucopenia (typhus), and FeLV infection were widespread in felines a few decades ago. Fortunately, now, thanks to vaccination campaigns, cats are less and less affected by these diseases, which are becoming increasingly rare in clinics.
