The Importance of Fall Vaccinations for Your Pets

Protecting your pet is not a seasonal goal, but there are some diseases and conditions that are more likely to happen during certain parts of the year. If you are wondering what autumn vaccines are most important for pets, Animal Medical Center has the information that you are looking for. 

Why Vaccinate?

Vaccinations are often our best defense against serious infectious illnesses in our beloved pets. 

A vaccination allows an animal’s immune system to “get to know” a virus or bacteria before it actually encounters it in real life. This means that if they are exposed at a later date, the body is more likely to mount a faster and more effective response. This can minimize or even avoid illness altogether.

Some vaccines are against diseases that can be deadly. Others protect pets from zoonotic disease, or those diseases that humans can contract from animals. Still other vaccines are against diseases that may not be deadly often, but can be costly and frustrating to deal with. 

When administering vaccinations, our veterinary team recommends allowing the pet’s immune system a few weeks after the vaccination to fully respond. Many vaccinations also require a booster after their initial administration to provide optimal protection.

Fall Pet Vaccinations You Don’t Want to Miss

Because it’s important for your pet’s immune system to already be primed prior to disease exposure, we recommend routine vaccinations for certain risk factors well ahead of any potential exposure as part of a good wellness plan.  

There are a few fall pet vaccinations, though, that you should consider updating this autumn if your pet isn’t already protected. 

• Rabies: Protecting your pet against rabies is important, especially considering the human health risk (and the legal requirement in Florida). Raccoons and bats tend to be the most common carriers in the state, and are also more active this time of year. 
• Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease carried in the urine of wild animals, Leptospirosis infection can cause liver and kidney failure. It is also transmissible to humans. Outdoor activities in the cooler seasonal weather makes this an important seasonal pet vaccine. 
• Lyme disease: This bacterial disease carried by ticks is definitely one to avoid. Cases in Florida are on the rise, and exposure tends to be highest when deer populations are most active. 
• Bordetella and/or canine influenza: As you travel over fall break or the holidays, your dog’s risk for social disease like kennel cough and dog flu go up. Protect your pet by vaccinating. 

It is always better to prevent disease than to treat it, and vaccines are a great way to do so. Contact us if you have questions about fall pet vaccinations or what is recommended for your pet. We are happy to help.