At Eastcott Vets, we emphasize the importance of pet vaccinations in Swindon as a vital aspect of responsible pet care. Vaccination serves as a crucial means to safeguard your pets from potentially harmful and avoidable diseases. While dogs, cats, and rabbits can be susceptible to various potentially fatal illnesses, the adoption of pet vaccinations, coupled with technological advancements, has significantly reduced the prevalence of these diseases.
Despite not hearing much about these illnesses, it's essential to recognize that they still pose a persistent threat to our pets. The most effective way to ensure the safety of your pet is by keeping their vaccinations up-to-date.
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How do pet vaccines work?
Pet vaccinations contain safe viruses or other types of infectious agents, either in a weakened or dead state. When administered, these vaccinations prompt the animal's immune system to generate antibodies, acting as a defense mechanism.
In the event of actual exposure to the disease, these antibodies prevent the virus from spreading. At Eastcott Vets, we tailor our vaccinations to your pet's lifestyle, considering risk factors and the latest recommendations. Thanks to modern pet vaccinations, several illnesses can be effectively prevented with just one or two shots.
It's crucial to understand that pet vaccinations do not provide lifetime immunity. Regular booster vaccinations are advised by Eastcott Vets in Swindon, which also offers a great chance for a thorough physical check. All immunisations are reminded of by us, and you are welcome to get in touch with us to make an appointment.
Dog Vaccinations in Swindon
Dogs and puppies undergo their initial pet vaccinations to establish reliable protection from an early age, helping to overcome any residual maternal antibody defense. In Swindon, the first vaccination is typically administered around 8 weeks old, with the second given two to four weeks later (but no sooner than 10 weeks old), facilitating an early socialization plan. Your vaccination certificate will be provided during the second appointment.
Eastcott Vets recommends the administration of annual booster shots to ensure that vaccinations remain up-to-date.
For your dog, we can give the following pet vaccinations:
- Parvovirus
- Leptospirosis
- Distemper
- Canine Infectious Hepatitis
- Rabies
- Leishmaniasis
- Herpes vaccination
- Kennel Cough
Before administering the pet vaccination in Swindon, a thorough health examination is scheduled for each dog to ensure their overall well-being.
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Cat Vaccinations in Swindon
The initial pet vaccination plan for cats and kittens involves two doses. Since kittens, similar to puppies, retain some maternal protection, a second vaccination is essential for complete immunity. The initial pet vaccination is administered at 8 weeks of age, followed by the second dose three weeks later. A vaccination certificate is provided during the second appointment.
Maintaining immunity is crucial, so it's recommended to receive annual booster shots.
We can vaccinate your cat from several different illnesses here at Eastcott Ves, such as:
- Cat Flu
- Feline Enteritis
- Feline Leukaemia Virus
- Feline Chlamydophila
To ensure proper vaccination for your cats, we are available to discuss the required vaccinations with you.
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Rabbit Vaccinations in Swindon
It is advisable for rabbits to receive vaccinations against viral hemorrhagic disease (VHD) and myxomatosis.
With the introduction of our new rabbit vaccination, your pet can now be protected against both strains of VHD and myxomatosis with a single shot, eliminating the need for the two separate shots previously required.
Pet vaccinations play a crucial role in providing your rabbit with the best defense against serious and often fatal illnesses, including myxomatosis and viral hemorrhagic disease (VHD 1 and 2). Rabbits are recommended to receive pet vaccinations every 12 months. We suggest annual check-ups with Eastcott Vets, your local Swindon veterinarians, along with consultations if you have any concerns about your rabbit's health, ensuring it remains happy and healthy.
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Spread the cost of essential healthcare for your pet
Providing optimal care for your pet from the beginning and throughout its life is undoubtedly a paramount concern for every pet owner.
Find assurance by joining our Pet Health For Life plan, designed to safeguard your pet from potential hazards. The Swindon based Eastcott team provides comprehensive preventive healthcare, including annual pet vaccinations, all available for as little as £17 per month.
Pet Vaccinations FAQ
Why does my pet need to have vaccinations every 12 months?
Depending on the disease that your pet is being vaccinated against, the period of time that they are protected will differ. Certain diseases, such as leptospirosis in dogs and flu in cats only carry around 12 months protection, which is why a yearly booster is recommended. Even though you pet might be being vaccinated every 12 months, it is not always against the same diseases – your vaccination card will show you which diseases they are getting boosters for each visit. Visiting us every 12 months for vaccinations also means your pet gets a full annual health check, which is equally important!
Does my pet need to be vaccinated if they live inside?
Although your pet may not go outside, it is still possible for diseases to be brought into the house. This could be via soil on a dirty boot or via other wildlife that could enter the home. Therefore, having full vaccination can provide the protection needed for all circumstances, meaning you don’t have to take the risk.
I have heard that pet vaccinations are risky and to avoid them – is that true?
Any veterinary procedure that is performed can carry some sort of risk, however in the case of vaccinations, it is important to remember that for the majority of pets the benefits of being vaccinated greatly outweighs the risks. Vaccination reactions are rare and where they do occur, they are mostly short-term and mild. Reactions of this nature show that the vaccine is effectively stimulating the immune system. The team at Eastcott Veterinary clinic and hospital are always happy to talk to you about the benefits and risks associated with vaccinating your pet to help identify the most suitable strategy as part of their wider preventative healthcare programme.
Are there any schemes/offers to help with covering the cost of my pets’ vaccinations?
Our Pet Health for Life plan offers the best value way to vaccinate your pet to ensure they have the preventative health protection they need over the course of their lifetime. Being a member allows you the opportunity to spread the cost over 12 months whilst also receiving discounts on other services at Eastcott Veterinary clinic and hospital.
If you would like further information on vaccination programmes for your pet, or our Pet Health for Life plan, please contact us.
