CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — As families prepare for back-to-school season and the arrival of fall, local veterinarians are reminding pet owners not to forget about the health of their four-legged family members.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a campaign traditionally focused on the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. This year, local experts are encouraging families to extend that awareness to pets, who also rely on timely vaccinations to prevent serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses.
Core vaccines such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and feline panleukopenia are recommended for all pets, while non-core vaccines — including Bordetella, leptospirosis, and Lyme disease — may be needed depending on a pet’s environment and lifestyle.
“Vaccinations are not just about keeping your pet healthy. They’re about protecting your entire family and community,” said Dr. Sarah Hettinger, DVM, of the Animal Health Care Center of Chillicothe. “Routine checkups and on-time vaccines are among the best tools we have to prevent devastating illnesses in pets. National Immunization Awareness Month is the perfect reminder to review your pet’s records and schedule a visit with your veterinarian.”
Immunizations are especially important for pets that frequent dog parks, daycare facilities, or boarding kennels. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), timely vaccinations also help prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, which can transfer between animals and humans.
While some pet owners may consider low-cost or do-it-yourself vaccines, experts warn that over-the-counter options carry risks. Dr. Hettinger stresses that vaccines administered through a licensed veterinarian or reputable clinic ensure both safety and effectiveness.
Whether it’s updating rabies tags or starting a new vaccination series for a puppy or kitten, veterinarians say keeping pets current on their shots not only saves lives but also lowers long-term medical costs.
This article is being shared by Petland Inc which has a pet retail franchise operation with nearly 250 global locations. For nearly 60 years, Petland pet counselors have been dedicated to matching the right pet with the right customer and meeting the needs of both. To its customers who already have pets, Petland is dedicated to enhancing their knowledge and enjoyment of the human-animal bond. Petland was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in south central Ohio. For more information on Petland, visit www.petland.com.
