Why Annual Vaccinations Are Important for Pets in Milton Keynes
Keeping your pets healthy and protected is a priority for every pet owner. Milton Keynes Vets’ Rory Burke explains why one of the most important ways to safeguard your dog, cat, or rabbit is through annual vaccinations. These vaccinations not only protect your pet from serious and sometimes fatal diseases but also help prevent outbreaks in the wider pet community. Learn which diseases are covered and more about why vaccinations are so important below.
If your pet is due for their annual vaccination, book an appointment and our vets in Milton Keynes will get them up-to-date.
Book a vaccination appointment
What do vaccinations protect against?
Veterinary Surgeon Rory Burke shares that vaccinations are designed to shield your pet from diseases that can cause severe illness or even death. For dogs, they guard against conditions like canine distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Cats are protected from diseases such as feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and feline leukaemia.
Rabbits also need vaccines to protect against myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease (R-VHD1 & R-VHD2). These illnesses are highly contagious and often fatal, so regular vaccinations play a critical role in keeping your bunny safe.
Why are annual boosters needed?
It’s important to know that no vaccine provides 100% immunity, but they offer strong protection by helping the immune system recognise and fight off infections more effectively. In some cases, breakthrough infections can occur, especially if the pet was exposed to a high viral or bacterial load, has a weakened immune system, or if their vaccine immunity has waned over time. Regular boosters help maintain protection and reduce the risk of severe illness.
Additionally, annual vet visits to Milton Keynes Vets for vaccinations provide an opportunity to check your pet’s overall health. Our Vet Rory shares that early detection of issues during these visits can make a big difference in addressing potential concerns before they develop further.
Protecting more than just your pet
Vaccinating your pet doesn’t just protect them – it helps safeguard other animals in Buckinghamshire and further afield too. When a high percentage of pets are vaccinated, it reduces the spread of diseases in the community. This concept, known as herd immunity, is especially important for pets who may be too young or unwell to be vaccinated themselves.
What about indoor pets?
Even if your pet stays indoors most of the time, they’re still at risk. Diseases can spread through contact with other animals, contaminated surfaces, or even via humans bringing pathogens home on clothing or shoes. Annual vaccinations provide peace of mind that your pet is covered, no matter their lifestyle.
A lifetime of protection
From playful puppies and kittens to senior companions, annual vaccinations are an important part of lifelong care for your pet. Staying up to date with their vaccines helps keep them healthy and ready for all of life’s adventures with you.
If your pet is due for their vaccinations, don’t delay – book an appointment with our friendly team in Milton Keynes today.
Book a vaccination appointment