Vaccinations

Regular health check-ups are important for the long-term health and welfare of all pets. Routine examinations allow us to take a pro-active role in preventive health care. Actual or imminent health problems will hopefully be spotted earlier and appropriate treatment or preventive action taken.

We normally carry out a full nose to tail examination as part of the annual booster vaccinations for all dogs, cats and rabbits. This is an ideal opportunity to discuss any aspect of your pet’s health or well-being (e.g. weight problems) that is of concern to you. If appropriate, further investigation (e.g. blood tests, x-rays etc.) may be suggested.

It is of course possible to perform health examinations at times other than the annual vaccination. We often recommend more frequent check-ups for pets with chronic problems (e.g. heart disease, arthritis).

Vaccination protocols

Puppies

Are routinely vaccinated against Distemper, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. The initial course is two injections given two to four weeks apart depending on the age when the first injection was given, this can now be given from 6 weeks, allowing the puppy to “socialise” from an early age. Annual booster vaccinations are given.

Dogs can also be given vaccination against kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica). This is most effective if given one to two weeks before going into a “high-risk” situation – most often kennels, but also pet-shows, training classes, etc. This can also be given annually as part of your pets routine vaccination protocol.

 

Kittens

We routinely vaccinate against “cat flu”, enteritis and feline leukaemia. These can all be given together as a single injection from nine weeks of age and repeated three weeks later. Annual booster vaccinations are given.

 

Rabbits

Rabbits can be vaccinated from six weeks of age against Myxomatosis and from twelve weeks against viral haemorrhagic disease. Both are very serious and fatal diseases and vaccination is highly recommended. Annual booster vaccinations are given.