Affordable Pet Vaccines Inc.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment?

There is no appointment necessary.  You and your pet(s) just come in during the time the clinic is scheduled.  We require that you are in line by the scheduled end time.  We will close the line, but will stay and continue to process everyone in line. For a listing of clinic locations and time, please click here.

Do you accept credit cards or checks?

No Checks are accepted.  We apologize for any inconvenience.  We do have the ability to accept credit and debit card payments, but the prices advertised on the flyers reflect a 10% cash discount.  If you choose to pay via credit, that discount will not apply.

How can you offer these services at such a discount?

We are able to offer these low cost services through the generosity of the pet stores and locations that sponsor our clinics.  We have no expensive overhead, rent, or large equipment fees, so therefor we can pass these savings on to you.  We use only the highest quality vaccines that have been documented to have low reaction rates.  We use vaccinations manufactured by Schering-Plough/Intervet Animal Health and Pfizer Animal Health.
 

Do I need to bring my records?


No, you do not have to bring your past vaccine records.  If you have them, it would be helpful to bring along, but they are not required.  Our educated staff can assist you when deciding what vaccines your pet needs based on lifestyle and risk of exposure.

How old does my pet need to be to receive vaccines?


Puppies and kittens must be at least 6 weeks of age to receive vaccines.

What does "distemper" mean?


"Distemper" vaccines protect against a variety of diseases that differ in dogs and cats.  The canine "distemper" vaccine (DA2CPV) protects dogs from the following diseases:

Distemper "D"
Distemper is a virus that can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and
neurological abnormalities in infected dogs.  It is often fatal to dogs and/or puppies who are infected.

Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus Type 2) "A2"
Canine adenovirus type 2 is a self limiting respiratory disease in dogs, but this component of the distemper vaccine also protects against canine adenovirus type 1, a virus that causes canine infectious hepatitis.

Parvovirus  "CPV"
Parvovirus causes severe vomiting and diarrhea.  Parvo has a high mortality rate.   Puppies are most susceptible to infection, but any unvaccinated dog can contract Parvo.

The feline "distemper"  (FVRCP) vaccine protects against the following diseases:

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR)

         Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis is an upper respiratory infection resulting in conjunctivitis, sneezing, nasal discharge, eye lesions and occasional coughing.

Calicivirus (C)
         Calicivirus is a virus that can cause similar respiratory signs. These diseases account for 95% of upper respiratory infections in cats. Many adult cats are carriers, even though they may have no signs themselves of the disease, and are contagious.

Panleukopenia (P)
         Panleukopenia causes vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fever and sudden death in cats.


Why does my puppy or kitten need a series of vaccines?

A puppy or kitten drinks immunizing antibodies in its mother's first milk (colostrum).  Those maternal antibodies provide early protection against infectious diseases if Mom is vaccinated, however, they also neutralize the immunizing agents in vaccines. 
Maternal antibodies naturally decline during the first eight to twelve weeks of life and eventually disappear.  This is the reason why puppies and kittens receive a series of vaccinations.  This series allows the immune system to develop a young ones own antibodies as the maternal antibodies decrease, providing long term protection.

What is a booster?

"Booster" refers to repeating a vaccine that had been previously administered.  The additional vaccinations will "BOOST" the level of immunity in your pet.

What if my pet misses a booster vaccine?  Must I start the series over?

The following is an excerpt from veterinarypartner.com sponsored by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.)

"How long this maternal antibody lasts in a given animal is totally individual. It can depend on the birth order of the babies, how well they nursed, and a number of other factors. Maternal antibodies against different diseases wear off after different times. We DO know that by 16 to 20 weeks of age, maternal antibodies are gone and the baby must be able continue on its own immune system.

While maternal immunity is present in the puppy’s system, any vaccines given will be inactivated. Vaccines will not be able to "take" until maternal antibody has sufficiently dropped. Puppies and kittens receive a series of vaccines ending at a time when we know the baby's own immune system should be able to respond. We could simply wait until the baby is old enough to definitely respond as we do with the rabies vaccination but this could leave a large window of vulnerability if the maternal antibody wanes early. To give babies the best chance of responding to vaccination, we vaccinate intermittently (usually every 2 to 4 weeks) during this period, in hope of gaining some early protection."

So from reading the excerpt above you understand that the vaccines are not based on previous vaccinations but more so the timing they are given to offer the best protection.  We encourage you to follow the recommended protocol outlined at the time of your first puppy/kitten visit for the protection of your pet from contagious disease.  But if you miss a booster, the series can be continued .  It is not necessary to re-start the series.  These vaccinations are given in a series to protect your pet as their immune system grows stronger, therefor we stress the importance of continuing the series as directed.  Until the series is complete, your puppy and/or kitten is not fully protected from the contagious diseases.
 
Also, following the outlined series is important because the consecutive vaccination will produce a much greater (logarithmically greater) response if it is following a vaccine given 2 to 4 weeks prior therefor offering the best protection for your pet.

How long does the Rabies vaccine last?

The first Rabies vaccine a pet receives is good for 1 year.  As the immune system develops in adult pets, the immunity is carried for longer.  We offer a 3 year Rabies vaccine for adult pets that have been vaccinated for Rabies previously.

How old must my pet be to receive a Rabies vaccine?

Your pet must be at least 12 weeks of age to receive the Rabies vaccination.

Will I receive a Rabies Certificate, rabies tag, and proof of my vaccinations?

Yes.  We will provide you with all necessary documentation.  You will receive a copy of your vaccine certificate at the time the vaccinations are administered.  You will also receive a rabies tag.  Although this tag is not proof of the vaccine, it does serve as identification, but should not replace your standard ID tags.  Licenses can be obtained through some pet stores,the county or many county licenses are available for purchase online.

What is your protocol for vaccination schedules?

CANINE
Vaccination Protocol

Puppy Series First
Adult
Booster
Adult
Boosters
Vaccines
6-8
weeks
10-12
weeks
14-18
weeks
1 year after
series complete
Annually
Every 3 years
             
  Distemper √ √ √ √   √
  Canine Adenovirus
   Type 2
√ √ √ √   √
  Canine Parvovirus √ √ √ √   √
 
  Rabies Virus     √ √   √
             
  Bordetella (optional) √ √ √ √
  Lyme (optional) √ √ √ √
  Due to the high risk of allergic reaction caused by the Leptospirosis vaccination, we do not offer this vaccine at our clinics.  It is in the best interest of your dog to receive this vaccine at a local veterinary hospital where they are properly equipped in case of an allergic reaction.  Please discuss with our staff the level of risk for your dog contracting this disease.

FELINE
Vaccination Protocol

Kitten Series Last
Kitten
Booster
First
Adult
Booster
Adult Boosters
Vaccines 6-8 weeks 10-12 weeks 14 -18 weeks 1 year after series complete Annually Every 3 years
             
  Feline Viral
   Rhinotracheitis
√ √ √ √   √
  Panleukopenia √ √ √ √   √
  Feline Calicivirus √ √ √ √    √
             
  Rabies Virus     √ √ √
             
  Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
   (optional)
  √ √ √ √  

Our protocol is based on the research of veterinarians at leading veterinary hospitals and learning institutions. 


Do you perform a physical exam prior to vaccinating? Is there a charge for this exam?

Yes we do a full physical exam before administering any vaccinations.  There is no charge for this exam.  Any findings made during the physical will be outlined on your vaccine certificate as well as any recommendations our veterinarian made at the time of the physical.

What happens if my pet is found to be sick or unhealthy during the physical exam?

If we feel that vaccinating your pet would further compromise your pet's health, we will decline to vaccinate.  Depending on the condition, we may be able to provide treatment at the clinic and recommend you return for your vaccinations at a later date.  If the condition is more complex, we will refer you to a local veterinary hospital for treatment.  We will follow up with you to check in and see how your pet is feeling and/or recovering.  Your pet's health is our number one concern.

My pet has an ear infection, but is not due for vaccines, is there any charge for the exam then?

No.  Our exams are always free.  We will offer information regarding the condition and when possible even treatment.  There are many remedies for common ailments available over the counter and many that can be addressed naturally and with proper diet. 

* Please understand that we are a mobile service and not a fully equipped veterinary hospital.  We may not be able to assist with every condition, and if your pet is seriously ill, please seek treatment at a local veterinary hospital. 

Do you charge a medical waste fee?

No.  Any and all additional fees we may incur are incorporated into the price of our vaccines.  There are no hidden fees.  The price you see is the price you will pay.  If your pet is in need of antibiotics, additional fees will be applied based on the antibiotic and dose required.  These fees will be discussed with you at the time of the exam if necessary.  We also discount the price of the antibiotics we stock.  If we do not stock the antibiotic your pet needs, we may be able to script the medication out or will refer you a local veterinary hospital for treatment.

Why do you not offer the leptospirosis vaccination for dogs?

We do not offer the vaccine for leptospirosis because of the high probability of allergic reaction.  This reaction can be severe and may be fatal if not treated properly and in a timely fashion.  Although we do carry medication to counteract reactions, the reaction rate to this specific vaccination is so high we feel as if it would be irresponsible of us to vaccinate, risk the chance of reaction, and not be able to guarantee our presence , as we are a mobile clinic, to treat your pet properly. 

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through the urine of rodents.  The vaccination protects for only certain strains, and some of the strains there is no vaccination available at this time.  We recommend you call a few veterinary hospitals in your area and collect information regarding the incidence of lepto in your area to determine your pet's risk.  We suggest you call a variety of hospitals for an opinion as the response may vary between hospitals.  An informed pet owner can make wise decisions for a healthier pet!

Why do you not offer certain other vaccinations such as Corona for my dog, or FIP for my cat?

Certain vaccinations are not considered necessary due to the incidence of the disease in your area or risk of exposure, disease process ,  or the efficacy of certain vaccinations.  If we have concerns with certain vaccinations or their effectiveness, we may not offer these vaccinations.  If the vaccine is not needed, we believe your pet should not be exposed to the vaccine or any possible side effects related to the vaccine unnecessarily.  We are concerned for the health and well being of your pet and unnecessary exposure to vaccinations may result in more serious health problems in the future.. 

What do I do if my pet has a reaction to a vaccination?

Some muscle soreness, lethargy, mild fever and lack of appetite persisting for a day or two are considered common reactions to stimulation of the immune system. Vaccine reactions beyond this are unusual but possible.

If your pet experiences facial swelling or hives, this is a medical emergency.  We carry with us medication to counteract these reactions.  If it is after the clinic time or the clinic location is a distance from your home, it is imperative you take your pet to a local veterinary hospital or emergency facility in your area.  A severe reaction can cause shock and sometimes even death. 

Frequent vomiting post vaccination may be indicative of an allergic reaction.  Please be sure to monitor your pet closely.

After your pet has been treated, it is important to notify us of any reaction so that we may take precautions prior to vaccinating your pet in the future.  Please contact us either by phone or email if this situation occurs.  We will discuss the situation and inform you of any and all precautions that need be taken prior to future vaccinations, whether with us or any other facility that may vaccinate your pet.  It is extremely important if you are aware of a vaccine reaction in your pet with a previous vaccination that you inform us, OR ANY OTHER FACILITY that may administer vaccinations to your pet in the future prior to your pet receiving any vaccinations.

Why do you not offer ferret vaccinations?

There is high rate of allergic reaction to vaccination in ferrets.  For the same reasons we do not offer the lepto vaccination, so too is why we do not vaccinate ferrets at our clinics.  Reactions to vaccines can occur at any time in ferrets.  It is believed that previously vaccinated ferrets may be at a even higher risk for vaccine reaction.  Even with the new vaccines developed for ferrets, reaction can still occur and have been reported.  Be sure whoever is vaccinating your ferret is using a ferret approved vaccination.   It is important when your ferret is vaccinated that you allow at least 30 minutes post vaccination to stay close to the hospital in the event of a reaction.  Most reactions in ferrets are severe and require anti-histamine injections, corticosteroids and fluid therapy to counteract reaction. 

What is a vaccine titer and can you perform vaccination titers?

A vaccine titer is a blood test that measures the antibody level a dog or cat is carrying against a certain virus.  We can perform these titers through a laboratory and will phone you with the results when we receive them from the lab.  If you are interested in titers, please call or email us.  We will be happy to discuss titers, pricing and recommendations regarding titer or vaccination on your pet's individual basis.  


Can I get prescriptions?

Yes, we do prescriptions for our clients if it is considered safe to script these medications and if the medication does not need to be monitored.  If a medication does need to be monitored we will refer you to a local veterinary hospital.  We also carry with us common antibiotics as well as prescription creams and  ointments to treat certain ailments.  If we do not have a specific antibiotic, we do prescriptions through various online pharmacies.

To obtain a prescription for heartworm prevention, the pet must have a current negative heartworm test.  We now offer heartworm preventative available for purchase at the clinic as well as through our online pharmacy. (Visit our "Pawscriptions and More" link on the left)  Prescriptions for NSAIDS like Rimadyl or Metacam will not be offered due to the importance of having the liver values evaluated while on these medications.  We hope to be able to offer this monitoring in the future, but at this time are unable to do so.  It is in your pet's best interest to have these medications prescribed by a local veterinarian.

Frontline, Advantage, and Advantix are now available without a prescription.  These products are available for purchase at the pet stores that sponsor our clinics as well as online. 

WARNING it is not recommended to use Advantix in a household with cats and Advantix is not safe for use on cats.


Do you offer spay/neuter services?

We do not offer these services ourselves, but do provide information of where to obtain these services at a low cost.  This information can be found on our links page.

At what age do you recommend Spaying/Neutering my pet?

The standard age for spaying and neutering is six (6) months.  There are facilities that will spay or neuter your pet as early as 2 months, but six months is still the average. 

Do you recommend I have my pet spayed or neutered?

Yes.  It is not only what a responsible pet owner should do, but has positive health benefits, positive behavioral benefits as well as reduces pet population and unnecessary euthanasia of unwanted pets in shelters.  Instead of breeding your pet, adopt another!  Thousands of animals are euthanised every year, even pure bred dogs.  If a friend just loves your dog so much, and wants one, ask them to go adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue. 

Spaying a dog before their first heat cycle can almost eliminate the chance for mammary cancer (breast cancer.) After a dog's second heat cycle the risk that your dog will develop breast cancer is 1 in 4.  Also females can develop a pyometra, an infection of the uterus, that is considered a medical emergency.  The pet must undergo emergency treatment and surgery.  Please educate yourself on all the benefits of spaying and neutering.  There is an unlimited amount of information available online explaining the benefits.  Below are just a few links.


http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/adoption-pet-care/care/spaying-neutering.html

http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/pet_overpopulation/facts/why_spay_neuter.html

http://www.spayusa.org/main_directory/02-facts_and_education/benefits_sn.asp

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/spayneuter/spay-neuter-top-ten.html

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=1570

Canine Influenza
 
Canine Influenza or the Canine Flu is a respiratory tract disease that is similar to Kennel Cough. The disease seems to occur most frequently in high density dog populations such as boarding facilities, grooming shops, shelters, daycare, dog parks, dog shows, and dog race tracks where it was first identified in 2005.

The infection rate is high since this is a new virus and no dogs have a natural immunity to it at this time.  Potentially every dog exposed may develop the disease.  50-80% of dogs will develop symptoms of the flu, coughing, listlessness, fever, and a "snotty nose."  Most of these dogs will recover with supportive care such as antibiotics.  A small percentage of these dogs may develop pneumonia and require more aggressive veterinary care. The mortality rate for this disease is low and ranges from 1-8% depending on what reports you read. 

For more information please follow the links below.

Veterinary Partner, The Pet Health Library, Canine Influenza

VP Client Information Sheets, Canine Influenza


Vaccine Now Available

APV is now offering the Canine Influenza Vaccine.  Since this is a new vaccine, every dog vaccinated requires a booster in 2-4 weeks after the initial dose.  Annual re-vaccination is recommended.  This series should be given at least 7 days prior to the dog entering a high risk environment such as boarding kennel, grooming shop, dog show etc.  Not every dog is a candidate for the vaccine, but only those who are at high risk of being exposed.  The price for this vaccine is $29.00. 

The vaccine does not prevent infection but lessens the severity of the disease much like the human flu vaccine.  Studies showed safety in trials of over 700 dogs with no severe reaction to the vaccine.  Some dogs may actually exhibit signs of the flu after vaccination, and some dogs may be tender at vaccination site.

Do you offer fecal examinations?

Yes we now offer fecal examinations. Fecals require about 1 tablespoon of fecal material for accurate testing.  So we only need a small stool sample.  Please bring in either an air tight container, or a sealed ziploc type baggie. 

The reason we have begun to offer this service is based on CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and the CAPC (Companion Animal Paraite Council) recommendations.  Both recommend twice yearly examinations, although most clients elect annual fecal exams.  This is especially important if you have children in your home.  Please read the below referenced artcile from the CDC for more information.

www.cdc.gov/parasites/zoonotichookworm/resources/prevention.pdf
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

Your pets can not afford to be unprotected...so we provide the protection they need, at a price you can afford!  Affordable Pet Vaccines Inc.

Low Cost Vaccinations For Your Pet!