Caring for the health of our pets not only improves their quality of life, but it can also prevent serious diseases and costly treatments in the future. Vaccination and deworming are fundamental elements of this process. In addition, prevention is not limited to medical procedures but also includes good hygiene, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and a emotionally stable environment.
Along with the team at stake chile, we will analyze which vaccines are considered mandatory, which procedures must be done periodically, and which diseases pose a threat more frequently to pets.
Main threats to pet health: infections and parasites
Pets are constantly exposed to infectious agents that can seriously compromise their health. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites pose a real and constant threat, especially for puppies or animals with a weakened immune system. Diseases like distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis in dogs, or feline leukemia in cats, can be deadly if not detected and treated in time. The most alarming fact is that many of these diseases are preventable through proper vaccines.
Parasites also represent a significant risk, both internal and external. Intestinal worms, fleas, mites, and ticks can cause anything from mild discomfort to serious conditions like anemia, skin infections, and even transmission of zoonotic diseases, which means they can be transmitted to humans. Prevention must be constant and not limited to periods when parasites are most common. The key is to maintain a health calendar and apply the corresponding treatments regularly, without waiting for symptoms to appear.
Basic vaccines for dogs: schedule and importance
The vaccination schedule for dogs is an essential tool to prevent serious and, in many cases, deadly diseases. During the first weeks of life, puppies should receive a series of vaccines to protect them while their immune system matures. The initial doses are usually given between six and eight weeks of age, followed by boosters every few weeks until completing the basic scheme. Among the fundamental vaccines are distemper, parvovirus, canine hepatitis, leptospirosis, and rabies.
These vaccines not only protect the animal, but also contribute to controlling outbreaks within the canine population. In many countries, the rabies vaccine is mandatory by law due to the risk it poses to public health. Additionally, there are optional vaccines that may be recommended based on the dog’s lifestyle, such as the vaccine against kennel cough. It is important not to rely solely on internet information and always consult with a veterinarian, who will adjust the schedule to the specific needs of each animal.
Vaccines for cats: what every owner should know
Although it is often thought that cats are more independent and less prone to diseases, the reality is that they also need a well-defined vaccination schedule. Cats are exposed to highly contagious diseases that can endanger their lives. The essential vaccines include the feline triple (which protects against herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia), as well as the vaccine against feline leukemia, especially in cats that have outdoor access or live with other felines.
Vaccination in cats begins around eight weeks of age, with subsequent boosters and annual or biannual doses according to the veterinarian’s recommendation. Even indoor-only cats should be vaccinated, as some viruses can be transmitted through clothing, footwear, or people who have had contact with other animals. A common mistake is to think that if a cat does not go outside, it does not need to be vaccinated. However, this idea can have fatal consequences in case of infection.
Prevention of parasites: worms, fleas, and ticks
Combatting parasites should be part of the routine care for any pet. Intestinal worms, like roundworms and hookworms, can cause anything from diarrhea to severe intestinal blockages, especially in puppies. Internal deworming should be done periodically, according to the age and lifestyle of the animal. In general, it is recommended to deworm dogs and cats every three months, although this frequency may vary.
On the other hand, external parasites like fleas and ticks not only cause discomfort but can also transmit dangerous diseases. Ticks, for example, are vectors for ehrlichiosis and babesiosis, while fleas can cause allergic dermatitis. Nowadays, there are multiple forms of prevention, from spot-on treatments and anti-parasitic collars to long-acting oral tablets. It is essential to apply these treatments throughout the year and not just in spring or summer, as parasites can survive indoors during the winter.
The role of nutrition and hygiene in strengthening the immune system
Good nutrition is one of the main keys to maintaining the immune system of pets in optimal conditions. It’s not just about filling the bowl, but providing a balanced diet that contains all essential nutrients: quality proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. High-quality commercial foods are formulated to meet these needs, but it is always advisable to consult a veterinarian before making changes to the diet.
In addition to nutrition, hygiene is another fundamental pillar. A clean environment reduces the proliferation of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Regular bathing, grooming, ear cleaning, and nail trimming help prevent infections and allow for the detection of diseases from early stages. It is also important to wash utensils and keep the pet’s sleeping area clean. A pet living in a clean environment, well-fed, and with regular care has many more chances of leading a long and healthy life.
Regular veterinary check-ups: when and why
Taking the pet to the veterinarian only when it is sick is a common mistake that can have serious consequences. Regular check-ups allow for the detection of diseases in early stages, when treatment is more effective and less costly. General check-ups include evaluating weight, dental health, coat, skin, ears, and eyes, as well as blood and urine tests if the veterinarian deems it necessary.
These visits are also an opportunity to update vaccines, perform deworming, and discuss the behavior or diet of the animal. In older animals, check-ups should be more frequent, as chronic diseases like arthritis, kidney failure, or diabetes are more common. Preventive medicine not only saves money but also improves the
