Vaccination can protect animals against many highly infectious and even fatal diseases. It is especially important in young animals, because their immune system is not fully mature and are most susceptible. Early vaccination allows them to socialise and interact with other animals safely.

Puppies and kittens are suggested to be vaccinated from 8 weeks of age onwards.

• Puppies should be given initial DHPPiL (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis) vaccination monthly until 16 weeks old. They should also be vaccinated against rabies by 5 months old according to the legislation.
• Kittens should be given initial FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia) vaccination monthly until 16 weeks old. Your pet should be isolated until the vaccinations are complete.

It has been proven that there is a significant incidence of mammary gland cancer and uterine infections in intact female dogs/cats as they age. By spaying at an early age, the reproductive organs i.e. the uterus and ovaries, are removed before the animal goes on heat. This can effectively prevent the above diseases and unplanned pregnancy.

On the other hand, neutering male dogs reduces the attraction during female dogs’ estrus, hence decreases the aggression to other dogs. It can also solve problems like difficulty in urination caused by enlarged prostate gland as the male dog grows older, and can avoid diseases such as testicular cancer. If male cats are not neutered, they may urinate everywhere, and they may also suffer from diseases such as testicular cancer.