Vaccination is Vital

The concern amongst clients about over-vaccination of their pets is ever present, fuelled, in part, by recent media interest in this subject.

Highcliff Veterinary Practice follows the data-sheet guidelines provided by the manufacturer which state that vaccination is not necessary against all of the diseases every year. We use vaccines that give proven protection against parvovirus, hepatitis and distemper for three years. This approach still maintains a high level of protection for your pet, and also the population at large. Yearly vaccinations for other diseases, like leptospirosis (which can be passed to humans), where research has proven that the protection provided by vaccines only lasts for one year, are still crucial and we would urge you to continue with your annual health check with us. This is the opportunity to discuss any other aspect of your pet's health with the vet and ensure that it gets a check-up on a regular basis.

For those owners who have expressed concern about vaccine safety, well there is good news on that front as well. A recently completed independent and scientifically reviewed study carried out by the world renowned Animal Health Trust at Newmarket has now provided absolutely clear-cut evidence that there is no association between routine vaccination and signs of ill health.

Let's not forget how important vaccination is and what it has already achieved! Vaccination affords protection against life threatening diseases like distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis. There is no cure for these diseases and, if you do not vaccinate, you could be putting your pet at risk.

All we ask is that you remember the benefits of vaccination - surely it is far better for your pet to be protected against disease than to watch it suffer or even die an unnecessary death?

For further information or advice on your pet's vaccinations, please do call the practice to make an appointment with a vet. The future health of your pet depends on vaccination - help us to help your pet!