TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Nearly every pet owner knows about rabies vaccines, but not many know about the many other immunizations that can help to keep their pet healthy.
A pet's vet plays a key role in the health of the animal from providing regular check ups and preventative care like heartworm medication or vaccines, with the youngest pets needing more immunizations.
"With puppies, it is so critical to have those puppy vaccines done; that initial vaccines series," said Dr. Karis Shelton, Associate Veterinarian at North Florida Animal Hospital. "Dogs is a distemper parvo parainfluenza virus combo-vaccine that we recommend several times as a puppy, and up to every three years as adults."
Just like their canine counterparts, cats also have a distemper combo-vaccine, with a number of other shots, including the required rabies vaccine, that both animals may need, especially if they spend time outside.
"Leptospira is something that your animal could be exposed to by being outside, drinking from ponds and rivers where wildlife could have access to as well," said Dr. Shelton. "We do recommend for dogs that like to go outside and go on trail walks, that they're vaccinated against lepto as well."
Although cats aren't at risk for leptospira, they can contract diseases, like "feline leukemia" from other cats, especially if they spend a lot of time outside.
It's not always about a vet visit for your pet's health. Professionals say you should get them groomed regularly.
"Matting is a huge concern for any long haired breed. With matting, the dog or cat can't regulate its own body temperature," said Stephanie Hinson-Debose, Bloomingtales Pet Salon Owner. "In Florida, that's a huge concern. You have animals going outside, they're pretty much cooking from the inside out with the mats."
Believe it or not, an animals fur can do more than just keep them warm, it can also keep them cool in the hot months.
"Shaving off a golden retriever, say for instance, the sub-coat in it with the hair may be 70 degrees, but once you shave it and you take away all its protection from the elements, it's going to be just as hot as it is outside," said Hinson-Debose.
If you're not sure what your fur-baby needs, ask questions, and be honest about their behaviors.
You should find a vet or groomer that you trust, but also makes your pet feel safe. This can be done either by simply talking to the professional, or setting up "meet and greet" with them and your pet.
