Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your pet healthy. Without preventive care like vaccinations, pets can easily become sick, need expensive medical care, or even lose their lives. If you are on the fence about vaccinations for your pet, let us debunk some of the myths you may have heard.
Myth 1: Vaccinations will make my pet sick.
This is the most common myth you will hear about vaccinations. Many people mistakenly believe that because vaccinations introduce small amounts of an illness they might make your pet extremely sick. Statistically, this is not true. Vaccinations do not have enough of the virus present to do more than help your pet build antibodies. While reactions are rare, some pets might feel a little under the weather for a day or two after a vaccination.
Myth 2: Indoor pets don’t need vaccinations.
Unfortunately, your indoor pets can still spread and contract illnesses. Not only can they catch something from the other pets they meet, they can even catch illnesses from you! They will need vaccinations if you ever move into a new place or you want to introduce a new pet. Vaccinations for indoor pets also protect them if they accidentally escape the home and get in a fight, get bitten by insects, or encounter an infected animal’s droppings.
Myth 3: Senior pets are too old for vaccinations.
Older pets need vaccinations, too. In fact, vaccinations are probably most important for seniors. Just like puppies and kittens, aging pets are more vulnerable to illness and disease. As pets age, they are less able to fight off infections, so vaccinations will help them live longer, healthier lives.
Myth 4: Skipping vaccinations will save me money.
Skipping vaccinations to save money can actually end up costing you more in the long run. The illnesses that vaccinations protect against are severe—they can lead to lifelong medical problems or even death. If your pet gets sick, you could wind up spending thousands on office visits, emergency care, diagnostics, medications, and treatments.
Myth 5: My veterinarian over-recommends vaccinations.
Your veterinarian will recommend vaccinations based on your pet’s lifestyle. Recommendations can change state by state and even from county to county. There are certain vaccinations all pets need, that we call core vaccinations. Other vaccines are optional, and might only be recommended for certain animals. For example, if you like to go on hikes with your dog, they could benefit from a vaccination against Lyme disease.
Pet Care You Can Trust in Gilbert, Arizona
At East Valley Animal Hospital, we know how important your pet’s health is to you. That is why we offer the best veterinary care available in Gilbert, Arizona. Every appointment has time built in to talk about your concerns and answer any questions you may have, including questions about vaccinations.
Put your pet’s care in the right hands. Contact us today for a preventative care appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/15/25). Photo by Micah Giszack on Unsplash