November is Senior Pet Month: Keep Your Senior Pets Healthy with Up-to-Date Vaccinations 

November is Senior Pet Month, and it’s the perfect time to show extra love to your aging companions. Pets over the age of seven have different healthcare needs, and one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy is making sure their vaccinations are up to date. 

Vaccinations for Senior Dogs 

As dogs age, their immune systems weaken—making them more vulnerable to preventable diseases. Staying current on vaccines helps your dog live a longer, healthier life. 

Core vaccines for dogs: 

• Rabies: Protects against a fatal viral disease (and required by law). 

• Distemper: Guards the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. 

• Parvovirus: Prevents severe illness that causes vomiting and dehydration. 

• Leptospirosis: Shields against a bacterial infection that affects the liver and kidneys. 

Additional protection: 

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): For social dogs in boarding or daycare. 

• Lyme Disease: Recommended for dogs exposed to ticks. 

Vaccinations for Senior Cats 

Cats are experts at hiding symptoms, so prevention is key. Regular checkups and vaccines help catch issues early and prevent serious illness. 

Core vaccines for cats: 

• Rabies: Fatal if untreated and transmissible to humans. 

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Weakens the immune system and increases infection risk. 

• Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia): A highly contagious and deadly virus. 

Additional care: 

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Not vaccine-preventable but important to monitor. 

• Upper Respiratory Infections: Vaccinations can reduce risk in multi-cat homes or shelters. 

Why Vaccinations Matter for Senior Pets 

• Weakened immune systems: Older pets can’t fight infections as easily. 

• Hidden symptoms: They may not show signs of illness until it’s advanced. 

• Better quality of life: Prevention means more happy, comfortable years with you. 

Stay on Schedule 

Your veterinarian can help build a custom vaccination plan based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health. Staying proactive keeps your senior pet thriving through their golden years. 

Ready to protect your senior pet?

Schedule a wellness or vaccination appointment today at VOTS