Vaccinating your pet

Many of us have experienced the sad event of losing a pet. Among the countless causes of death are infectious diseases. So it's wise, for your pet's sake and that of others, to play your part in controlling these diseases by having your pet vaccinated regularly.

There is no universal schedule applicable to all animals. The age of the first vaccination, the types of vaccines and their frequency of administration need to be adapted to each individual's geographical location and lifestyle.

Dogs

If you own a dog, make sure it is vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis, paramyxovirosis, parvovirosis and leptospirosis. In certain situations, such as when your dog takes part in dog shows, or if you board him on vacation, he should also be immunized against kennel cough. Last but not least, your pet must be protected against rabies, according to the legislation in force in the country you're visiting.
Here's a classic example of a dog's vaccination schedule: first vaccinations at 9 weeks, to be repeated 3-4 weeks later. Note that for rabies, the primary vaccination consists of a single injection that can be given as early as 12 weeks. An annual booster for all these vaccines is then required. For dogs traveling to certain parts of the world, other vaccines are required, notably against piroplasmosis and Lyme disease, two tick-borne diseases.

Cats

If you own a cat, we recommend vaccination against calicivirus, herpesvirosis and panleukopenia (typhus). These vaccines are suitable for apartment cats that don't leave the house and have no contact with other cats. Cats with more freedom should also be vaccinated against feline leukemia. As with dogs, your cat will need to be vaccinated against rabies, in accordance with the laws in force in the country where you are staying and those where you are traveling.
The vaccination schedule is similar to that for dogs, with the first vaccinations at 9 weeks of age, then 3-4 weeks later, followed by an annual booster.

Ferrets

Although less widespread, the ferret is an increasingly popular pet. We recommend protection against distemper from the age of 8 weeks (with a second injection at 12 weeks) and against rabies from the age of 12 weeks. An annual booster is then recommended.

European passport

As of October 2004, all dogs, cats and ferrets traveling within the European Union are required by law to carry a passport. The veterinarian will record the vaccinations and dewormings administered to the animal. This document will include an identification number carried by the animal, either via a tattoo or a microchip injected under the skin. Please note, however, that microchips will be the only means of identification used from 2008 onwards.