General Vaccination Questions

Does a vaccination protect my pet 100%? No, they aid in the prevention of disease. There is always the possibility that your pet's immune system will not respond appropriately to a vaccine. These situations are rare, though. You must be sure, however, to follow the veterinarian's recommendations on boosters - especially in puppies and kittens receiving their initial series of vaccines.

How do I know if this stray dog/cat I found has been vaccinated? How do I know if this person who gave me this puppy/kitten/cat/dog really vaccinated it like they said? Will it hurt to give it a vaccination if it has already had one? Unless you have written proof (or verbal proof over the phone) from a veterinary clinic, humane society, city shelter or other reliable establishment, it is best to assume your pet has not been vaccinated. You should start with initial vaccinations followed by necessary boosters. Even if the pet has been vaccinated, it will not hurt it. It is far more likely to become infected with one of the many diseases (that are vaccinated against) than it is to have a reaction to an additional vaccine. Also, the only legally recognized rabies vaccination (in Virginia) has to be given by a licensed veterinarian (or his/her licensed technician).

What side effects might I see after my pet receives a vaccination? The most common side effects are fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and soreness or swelling at the site of injection (for up to 48 hours). On rare occasioins, there may be vomiting or diarrhea. On even rarer occasions, your pet may itch, break out in hives or have difficulty breathing (these usually occur within minutes to hours after the vaccine is given). If any of these things (other than the common side effects) occur, call your veterinary clinic immediately.

In some cats, tumor development at the site of the rabies or feline leukemia vaccination has been noted. If there is swelling at that site that persists for more than a few weeks, or that increases in size or firmness, call your veterinary clinic.

My pet is pregnant. What vaccines can she get? Is my pet too young for vaccines? Call your local veterinary clinic for answers to these questions.

Is my pet too old for vaccines? No, unless there is an existing medical condition that would contraindicate vaccination. Check with your veterinarian.

Is my pet too sick for vaccines? Is is not recommended that sick animals be vaccinated until they are well. Your veterinarian will make this determination.

What vaccine does the law require? Only the rabies vaccine, be it is highly recommended to vaccinate your pet with other vaccines to fully protect him against potentially life-threatening diseases. Your veterinarian can advise you on the other vaccinations.

Information adapted from the Richmond, Virginia Spay & Neuter Foundation
Feel free to pass along this information to those wanting the facts about general vaccinations.

Angel says, "Thank you for keeping us vaccinated."