Welcome back to our Blog!
February 8th, 2016 – Vaccinations
In this week’s issue we will start by focusing on a topic that is crucial to the well-being of our pets: the importance of vaccinations. This is all the more relevant during the winter period, where more pets tend to fall sick with the onset of the cooler weather. We cannot but stress the need to ensure that your animal companions are regularly vaccinated in order to keep them healthy all year round. Pets are at risk of catching a number of diseases, some of which can be dangerous and even fatal. Routine vaccinations, involving a simple and inexpensive injection, will minimise this risk and ensure that your pet is up to date with his or her medical care.
Which vaccines and how often?
The type and frequency of vaccines required by your pet will depend on a number of factors including age, lifestyle and geography/exposure. Generally speaking, younger pets will need boosters in order to maximise their level of immunity while adult pets will need regular yearly vaccinations. Similarly, a pet that goes outside will be exposed to greater risks.
However, the situation in Qatar is slightly different in that pets are being imported from all over the world and they are therefore exposed to so many viruses. Greater exposure to viruses means that it is necessary to vaccinate more frequently. Not only does this ensure the safety of the pet, it also results in lower costs to the owner as an inexpensive vaccination is far less costly than having to treat a potential disease.
Some of the most important vaccines for dogs include canine parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and rabies, while those for cats include panleukopenia (feline distemper), feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type I (rhinotracheitis) and rabies. Geographical variations do exist, however, and additional vaccinations may be required based on your pet’s location. In Qatar, for instance, imported dogs should also be vaccinated against parainfluenza (kennel cough – bordetella) and leptospirosis in addition to the above.
Here at the Canadian Veterinary Clinic, Doha, we believe in providing the best possible care for your pets. A simple consultation will allow us to examine your pet and work out which vaccinations are best for him or her in order to keep your pet healthy for many years to come. Should you wish to discuss your pet’s requirements with a qualified member of our veterinary staff, please do get in touch. We are just a phone call away!
The team at the Canadian Veterinary Hospital, Doha
