Question 1: My pet hardly ever goes outside.  Does he/she really need to be vaccinated?

Answer: Pet vaccinations should be considered on an individual basis.  We do not recommend all vaccines for all pets.  However, we strongly encourage all pets to be vaccinated for the "core" diseases.  Optional vaccinations should be considered based on your pet's lifestyle.  The core vaccines include Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Coronavirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospira, and Rabies for dogs, and Distemper, Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Rabies for cats.  Many of these diseases can be passed from infected animals to your pet indirectly through contaminated shoes, clothing, water or food bowl, your hands, or the air.  In addition, we believe that it is very important that all pets be vaccinated for Rabies even though most pets are at extremely low risk of infection.  Pets can unexpectedly escape and become infected or Rabies infected animals (skunks, bats, raccoons) may gain entrance to your home.  All dogs are required by law to be vaccinated for Rabies and many communities require that cats be vaccinated for Rabies as well.  You should check with your individual community regarding cat Rabies vaccination requirements.  Vaccinating your pet for Rabies also provides peace of mind.  In the unfortunate event that your pet bites someone it is much less stressful for you and the bite victim if your pet has been vaccinated for Rabies.  Unvaccinated pets have had to be euthanized and tested for Rabies to satisfy bite victims or their families.  For additional information see the Client Handouts page, A Healthy Start for Your New Kitten and A Healthy Start for Your New Puppy.