Going Over Pet Vaccines And Why They’re So Important In Honor Of National Pet Immunization Awareness Month

Every August is National Pet Immunization Awareness Month, a perfect time to check in on your furry friend’s health and ensure they’re protected from contagious (and often serious) diseases. Whether you’re new to pet ownership in Cincinnati or a lifelong animal lover, here’s what you need to know about vaccinations and how they keep local pets safe!

Why Vaccines Matter for Cincinnati Pets

• Protection Against Diseases: Vaccines guard dogs and cats from dangerous illnesses like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, bordetella, and feline leukemia. Outbreaks can occur anywhere, including Cincinnati-area homes, parks, and daycares.
• Legal Requirements: In Ohio, rabies vaccines are required by law for dogs. Cincinnati also mandates rabies shots and recommends a full vaccination schedule, especially for pets that use city dog parks or boarding facilities.
• Community Health: Vaccinated pets help reduce the spread of diseases within the community, protecting other animals and humans.

Core Vaccines for Cincinnati Dogs & Cats

For Dogs:

• Rabies: Required by law; protects both pets and people.
• DA2PP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus): Core for all dogs.
• Leptospirosis: Especially important in regions with lots of rivers or wildlife (hello, Ohio River!), as this bacteria can be present in standing water.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Highly recommended if your dog attends grooming salons, daycares, or stays with pet sitters.

For Cats:

• Rabies: Required in many areas; always recommended.
• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia): Protects against common and sometimes fatal feline diseases.
• Feline Leukemia (FeLV): Needed for kittens and outdoor cats.

Vaccination Tips for Cincinnati Pet Owners

• Keep Records Up to Date: Bring a vaccination certificate to dog parks, boarding, or if using a local pet sitter.
• Discuss with Your Vet: Some pets need extra vaccines for tick-borne diseases or annual boosters, ask your Cincinnati veterinarian what’s best for your breed and lifestyle.
• Watch for Local Health Alerts: Occasionally, the Cincinnati Health Department issues warnings about disease outbreaks (such as canine influenza or parvovirus). Stay tuned to local news or the city’s website.
• Prepare for Boarding or Pet Sitting: If you’re traveling or leaving your pet with a sitter, have records ready and make sure core vaccines are up-to-date to avoid last-minute hassles.

Cincinnati Resources for Vaccinations

• Hamilton County Public Health often hosts low-cost vaccine clinics.
• Many Cincinnati-area veterinarians offer annual packages that bundle vaccines at a discount, call ahead!
• Animal shelters and rescue organizations sometimes hold “vaccine days” for community members.

Keeping Your Pets Safe & Healthy With Vaccinations

Staying current on vaccines isn’t just a health requirement, it’s a simple act of love for your pet and peace of mind for you. Let’s keep Cincinnati’s pets (and people!) happy, healthy, and protected all year long.

Hire A Pet Sitter Today!

Looking for a reliable pet sitter or dog walker? Then hire the professionals! Here at Stay At Home Pet Services, we offer quality pet sitting services at competitive prices. We have over 10 years of experience, our sitters are certified in pet first aid & CPR, and we love all pets as if they were our own.

We are located in Cincinnati, OH and service the following areas of East Walnut Hills, Hyde Park, Mt Lookout, Oakley, Norwood, Kennedy Heights, Pleasant Ridge, Tusculum, East End, Mariemont, Fairfax, Madisonville, Mt Washington, Dillonvale, Deer Park, Silverton, Kenwood, Madeira, Indian Hill, and Anderson Township. 

Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 513-706-7702. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too! We post everyday, so make sure you follow us so you don’t miss out on any adorable pet pictures.