Pet Vaccinations & Parasite Prevention in Enterprise
Keeping your pet up to date on all vaccinations and parasite prevention helps keep them safe from disease, strengthens their immune system, and improves their overall quality of life.
At West Gate Veterinary Hospital we provide all the necessary pet vaccinations for animals living in Enterprise, including flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and more. Book online or call our office today to schedule your pet’s vaccinations and parasite prevention.
The Importance of Vaccinating Your Pets
Vaccinating your pets is the best and simplest way to keep them protected from common diseases and other pests like fleas and ticks. In addition to routine protection, vaccines can help pets in numerous ways such as:
- Vaccines can prevent the spread of disease from pet to human.
- Reputable boarding, daycare, and training locations often require vaccination to enroll your pet.
- Vaccinations may be needed for a pet to travel.
- Many states, including California, require household pets to be vaccinated against certain diseases.
- Vaccines keep your pet’s immune system strong by creating antibodies.
- Keeping your pet vaccinated is one of the best ways to extend its life and ensure it’s living comfortably.
- Vaccinating your pet will be more cost-effective than dealing with the treatment of disease and frequent vet visits.
Why Choose West Gate Veterinary Hospital for Your Pet’s Vaccinations
Protection and prevention are one of our core services. Our experienced team of veterinarians combines vaccination and parasite prevention with routine wellness exams to create the foundation of your pet’s healthcare.
While necessary, vaccinations can be a stressful time for your pet. Our professional team always treats your furry friends with empathy and compassion and works diligently to create a comfortable environment that caters to each pet’s individual needs.
Vaccines for Dogs & Puppies
Like cats, dogs also have a comprehensive list of vaccines that you need to be aware of. Work with your vet to maintain a proper dog vaccination schedule, starting with their first wellness exam at six weeks of age. Here is a full schedule of dog vaccinations you should plan for your pup.
| Vaccine | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DHPP | Combo vaccine that prevents contagious viruses including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. |
| Rabies | Protects against rabies. |
| Leptospirosis | Ensures lasting protection against leptospirosis bacteria. |
| Canine Influenza - Optional | Protects against contagious respiratory flu viruses. |
| Lyme - Optional | Protects against Lyme disease transmitted by ticks. |
| Bordetella - Optional | Protects against kennel cough. |
Vaccines for Cats & Kittens
Maintaining a consistent cat vaccine schedule ensures they’re staying fully protected. New kittens need a series of vaccines within the first several months of their life, as they are particularly vulnerable due to their weak immune systems.
| Vaccine | Purpose |
|---|---|
| FVRCP(Feline rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia) | Protects against core viral diseases. |
| Rabies | Protects against rabies. |
| FeLV (Feline Leukemia) - Optional | Protects against feline leukemia. |
Parasite Prevention for Pets in Enterprise
Parasite prevention is also key for pets living in Enterprise. We offer full protection against a wide range of parasites, such as:
Fleas
Fleas are external parasites that feed on the blood of birds and mammals. Left untreated, fleas can quickly spread throughout your household.
Ticks
These external parasites consume the blood of mammals and are responsible for the spread of several serious conditions in people and pets.
Ear Mites
Tiny, highly contagious ear mites reside in the ear canals of dogs, cats and other mammals. These parasites reproduce continuously throughout their lifespan.
Heartworm
This thread-like parasitic roundworm is spread through mosquito bites and makes its home in the heart, lungs and blood vessels of infected animals.
Hookworm
These parasites live in the digestive tract of cats and dogs where they feed on the pet's blood. Hookworms can lead to anemia and other serious conditions.
Roundworm
This parasitic worm lives in the intestine and feeds on partially digested intestinal contents. This parasite can rob your pet of vital nutrients necessary to stay healthy.
Tapeworm
Tapeworms are spread through the ingestion of infected fleas during grooming. These hook-like parasitic worms live and grow in your pet's intestines.
Whipworm
Whipworms are spread through the ingestion of soil that has been in contact with an infected dog's feces. Whipworms pose a serious health risk to dogs.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects to Watch Out For
After your pet has been vaccinated, it may experience some temporary side effects. These can include soreness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite. More serious adverse reactions are highly unlikely but can occur. Pets can sometimes have an allergic reaction to a vaccine which requires immediate attention. In extremely rare instances, cats can develop tumors known as vaccine-associated-sarcomas (VAS) on the site of injection. Symptoms from an adverse reaction to a vaccine can include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, seizures or fainting, hives or facial swelling, and pale or blue gums. If you notice your pet exhibiting any of these symptoms, please contact us.
Payment Options for Vaccination & Prevention at West Gate Veterinary Hospital
At West Gate Veterinary Hospital we offer flexible financing and insurance options for Vaccination & Prevention. Sign up today with any of our payment plan partners or contact us for specific questions about insurance coverage. Read more about our financing options here.
Pay for treatments and routine visits over time with convenient monthly payments.
Scratch offers simple, transparent payment plans for your veterinary needs.
Ask us which insurance plans we accept for exams, treatments, and emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Vaccinations
What's the difference between a core vaccination and a non-core vaccination?
Core vaccinations are required for all cats and dogs, but non-core vaccines are optional depending on a pet’s risk factors. For dogs, non-core vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme, and canine influenza. For cats, non-core vaccines include FeLV, for feline leukemia.
How do vaccines protect pets?
Vaccines stimulate the pet’s immune system by producing a weakened antigen that triggers the pet’s body to produce antibodies that are designed to fight against the disease.
Do pets undergo vaccination during wellness exams?
New puppies and kittens should come in for their first wellness exam at around 8 weeks of age. During these visits, the veterinarian may opt to induce the first round of vaccines such as DHPP in dogs, and FVRCP in cats.
Book an Appointment at West Gate Veterinary Hospital
New pets are always welcome at West Gate Veterinary Hospital. Our friendly veterinary staff looks forward to providing our neighbors in the area and surrounding communities with the veterinary care they need.
