Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Vaccinating your animal companions is essential to preventing both dangerous illnesses that could ultimately result in death and illnesses that could spread to other animals and humans. It is essential to vaccinate your pet whether you keep them indoors or you allow them to visit public places like a dog park, grooming parlor, etc. Most states require a rabies vaccination.
Realizing how crucial it is to vaccinate your pet, you may begin to wonder where you can get a free or minimal-cost vaccine. Keep on reading to find the answers.
Do all Pets Need Vaccines?
Yes, vaccinations are necessary for all pets to prevent them from contracting diseases that could kill them or spread to their owners or other animals. Vaccinations, nevertheless, might differ from pet to pet and can either be core or non-core. All pets must have the necessary vaccinations, although the non-essential ones depend on the exposure of the animal. Vaccines protect pets from bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other disease pathogens.
What Vaccination should I get for my Pet?
According to the American Animal Hospital Association's recommendations (AAHA), rabies vaccinations are a mandatory shot for both dogs and cats in most states.
Others listed below can be core or non-core
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Hepatitis
- Canine Parainfluenza
- Parvovirus, Adenovirus-2 (Canine Infectious Hepatitis)
- Bordetella Bronchiseptica
- Kennel Cough
- Coronavirus (not COVID-19)
- Leptospirosis
Vaccines for cats are:
- Feline calicivirus
- Feline panleukopenia
- Feline leukemia virus
Does Pet Insurance cover the cost of Vaccinations?
Because vaccinations are a preventative measure, most pet insurance policies exclude them. Check out the list of what pet insurance covers. If you want your pet insurance to cover vaccination, you can purchase a wellness plan instead of or in addition to the standard policy.
What is the Cost of Pet Vaccination?
Dog vaccination range from $115 to $230 in the first year depending on where you live, while cat vaccinations can cost up to $200. The eventual cost depends on where you live, and the necessary shots due to their exposure.
Where do I find free or low-cost Vaccinations near me?
There are many options for obtaining free or inexpensive vaccinations. They consist of: • Government-run animal shelters provide immunization services at a lower cost. • Veterinary Medicine Colleges: A few veterinary colleges in the United States provide a small number of affordable clinics for pet owners to have their animals vaccinated. • Nonprofit groups: These organizations may provide free or inexpensive vaccinations as part of their animal welfare programs. • Charitable care: Some local vets may provide charitable treatment. • Location: In some places, vaccinating your pet is less expensive than in others. Small towns typically have lower prices than cities.
At what age does my Pet need to be Vaccinated?
Age and exposure affect both the recommended and optional vaccinations for your pet. At 3 to 5 weeks old, puppies receive their first immunization, but kittens receive it at 4 weeks. Based on their age and previous exposures, you can utilize the AAHA tools to determine the proper vaccination regimen for your puppies and kittens.
What happens if I don’t get my Pet Vaccinated?
Your pet is more likely to contract potentially fatal illnesses that are preventable by vaccinations if you don't get them immunized. While your pet might be able to survive some illnesses without immunization, it could cause them long-term problems and distress that could end up costing you more money. Additionally, vaccinations lessen the severity of any illnesses your pet may contract.
Help with other Pet Medications?
The programs found on RxLess can offer you a discount on your pet medications if the prescription medication has a human equivalent available. If it does, ask your veterinarian or animal licensed care provider for a prescription. The discounts listed will not work for pet specific medications.
Once you have the prescriptions, search rxless to find the best discounts in your area then download or text yourself a free discount card. Present the discount to the participating pharmacy along with your pet’s prescription and pay the discounted price.
