1129 S Hamilton Rd

Columbus, OH 43227 US

(614) 239-0027

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Pet Vaccine FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Vaccination

Vaccinations are a standard form of disease prevention for pets. At Hamilton Road Animal Hospital in Columbus, our veterinarians encourage all pet owners to have their pets vaccinated. We know that some pet owners have questions about the purpose, effectiveness and safety of vaccines. Knowing the answers to these questions can help you decide which vaccines your pet should receive and when.

What are Pet Vaccines?

Pet vaccines are shots that are given to pets to prevent them from contracting certain diseases. Vaccines do this by triggering an immune response that helps the body develop antibodies to fight these diseases.

What Kind of Diseases do Pet Vaccinations Prevent?

Different vaccines prevent different diseases. Common vaccines for dogs are Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Bordetella, and Rabies. Common vaccines for cats are Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper), Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Chlamydia, Feline Leukemia and Rabies.

What are Core And Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats?

Core vaccines are the standard recommended vaccines given to any pet of a certain species. Non-core vaccines prevent diseases that most pets are not at risk of contracting. A risk assessment will be done for every pet to determine if they should receive any of these additional vaccines. For example, pets that go to dog shows or to cat shows, live with a large number of other pets or go hiking in the woods might be more at risk for certain diseases and therefore may have a need for other non-core vaccines.

Are Vaccines Safe?

Vaccines save lives and prevent the spread of diseases among pets. Vaccines are generally safe. Some dogs or cats may have an adverse reaction to vaccines, but usually these reactions are mild. Some of the negative reactions that pets can have to vaccines include:

  • Fever
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Tiredness
  • Discomfort or swelling at the injection site
  • Lameness
  • Decreased activity

Usually these symptoms go away quickly and the vaccinated pet goes back to normal. However, if your pet experiences any of these signs for any abnormal length of time, contact your pet’s veterinarian right away.

When do Dogs and Cats need Boosters?

Depending on the type of vaccine, your pet will need booster shots every one, two or three years. Your pet's veterinarian at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital will track your pet's vaccination schedule so you won't have to keep track of the dates yourself. Our veterinarians will remind you about the upcoming shots at your pet's wellness exams.

Where can I get my Pet Vaccinated in Columbus, OH?

At Hamilton Road Animal Hospital, we provide vaccinations for pets in the communities of Columbus, Reynoldsburg, Pickerington, Whitehall, Groveport, Gahanna, Bexley and more. We have the veterinary expertise to vaccinate the dogs and cats of Columbus and the surrounding communities. For more information about pet vaccinations, contact Hamilton Road Animal Hospital today at (614) 239-0027. Your pet's veterinarian will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Questions?

Call us or fill out the form and we will get right back to you!


Over 34 Years of Service

      

Columbus, Whitehall, Bexley, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna and Pickerington.

Office Hours

Monday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-7:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-1:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Location

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