Things I Learned Working in a Vet Office (Pt. 1)

Every pet owner has to make a visit to a veterinary office at some point, whether it's for vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, illness, or an emergency. One of the first things I noticed as an employee is just how many people don't actually know what the vaccines are and why they are important.There are two types of vaccines for cats and dogs: Core vaccines and non-core vaccines. A core vaccine is recommended for all animals of a species no matter their lifestyle. Non-core vaccines are suggested vaccines based off of the potential the animal has of exposure.

There are four core vaccines for canines (rabies, distemper, Adenovirus-2/Hepatitis, and canine parvovirus) and four vaccines for felines (rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis or herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia virus).

Rabies is a zoonotic disease which means it can be passed to humans and other species. It is caused by the rhabdovirus and affects the nervous system. There is no treatment for this disease and is almost always fatal. In most states this vaccine is required by law to be given once a year.

Distemper is caused by a paramyxovirus. Dogs of any age can be affected, but puppies are the most at risk and it can be fatal. The distemper vaccine is often given as a monovalent vaccine that is a vaccine covering a combination of diseases. A common example is the DHPP vaccine which covers distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.

Adenovirus-2 is actually one of the causes of canine infectious tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough, but as a vaccine can also induce protection against Adenovirus-1, or canine hepatitis. Both of these diseases can be fatal especially in young puppies.

Canine Parvovirus is highly contagious and almost always fatal. Treatment is very difficult and not always effective. This virus can spread very quickly and is highly resistant to most disinfectants. Puppies are at the highest risk, however, Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers have been known to be much more susceptible to the virus than most other breeds.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis is an upper respiratory infection caused by feline herpesvirus type-1. FVR is very contagious and cats of any age are susceptible.

Feline Calicivirus is very similar to FVR, but can also cause oral ulceration. FCV is also highly contagious and can survive in the environment for up to a week. The calicivirus vaccine and the herpesvirus vaccine are most commonly given as a monovalent vaccine such as FVRCP which also covers panleukopenia.

Feline Panleukopenia Virus is caused by a strain of parvovirus. It is highly contagious and can be fatal especially to young kittens. The virus affects white blood cell counts and can have neurological affects as well.

All of these vaccines are extremely important. Seeing a pet brought in with any of these diseases is heartbreaking. The suffering is immense and could have been so easily prevented. Our pets trust us with their lives and depend on us entirely for their health, happiness, and well-being. I hope having a little insight into what these vaccines are and what they do will encourage many to vaccinate their pets annually.

If you still are unsure or you have any concerns, just talk with your veterinarian. No question is a stupid question. A good vet will be happy to educate you and help put your worries at ease so that your pet may receive the best care possible.