Protect your pets

Pets are an important part of our families and, just like us, can become unwell. There are many serious diseases that can be prevented through vaccinations. Yet research from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report has found that an increasing number of pets – six million cats, dogs and rabbits – could be at risk from deadly diseases.

PDSA vet Rebecca Ashman says: “Vaccinations provide protection against diseases such as leptospirosis, cat flu and myxomatosis. People can also catch leptospirosis from infected pets, resulting in severe illness, so vaccinating your dog can help protect your family.

“The decreasing number of dogs, cats and rabbits receiving regular vaccinations is a great concern for the health and welfare of the nation’s pets.

“Vaccinations work by introducing harmless versions of each disease into the body, allowing the immune system to recognise the disease and work out how to fight it.

“Dogs are usually vaccinated at eight weeks old, cats at nine weeks and rabbits from around five weeks of age. This is called their ‘primary vaccination course’. They will usually need two injections before they’re fully protected and are able to safely mix with other animals.

“Young pets are at a much higher risk of catching serious illnesses and, if they do get ill, they can quickly become seriously ill. Many of these diseases can also cause lifelong health issues.

“Pets also need regular booster injections throughout their life to maintain a level of protection – some every year, others less frequently. Your vet is the best person to speak to about your pet’s vaccination plan.”