Both puppies and kittens should be vaccinated for distemper at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age.

At 16 weeks they should also receive a rabies vaccine.

How does a vaccination work?

When your dog or cat receives a vaccine, its immune system produces special substances called antibodies that work against viruses or bacteria that cause the disease.

Later, if your pet is exposed to that same disease, these antibodies will help destroy those viruses or bacteria.

In many cases, vaccines against several diseases are combined, reducing the number of shots your pet receives at one time.

What possible risks are associated with vaccines?

Severe reactions to vaccination are very uncommon. Your pet is at a higher risk of contracting an infectious disease than of experiencing side effects from a vaccination.

Speak to your veterinarian if you have concerns about vaccinating your pet and to find out more about the risks associated with vaccination.

Information provided by Mulnix Animal Clinic. March 2006.