Home Pet Medicine

-Tips for Tampa Household Pets and Immunizations-

August marks National Immunization Awareness Month for both people and pets.  It is a perfect time to discuss the serious matter of vaccinations, immunizations, and preventative measures for household pets living around the surrounding Tampa Bay region.

Pet Vaccines, Immunizations, and Medications

Our real estate team has done some digging to help residents in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.  Domestic pets like cats and dogs should be given their first vaccines around six weeks of age, typically when they are weaned off their mother and before being brought into your family home.  After that, pet parents are responsible for booster shots, immunizations, and other preventative medications.  Below are a few common measures.  Be sure to consult with your veterinarian for comprehensive health instructions for your unique pet.

  • Diseases and Illnesses: By adhering to a regular check-up schedule, your veterinarian will design a vaccine program tailored to your pet’s breed, lifestyle, and exposure. Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco typically requires an updated Rabies Virus vaccine for domestic pets, but additional vaccines include Distemper, Bordetella, Parvovirus, Leptospira, Canine Parainfluenza, and Feline Leukemia depending on your pet.
  • Heartworm and Parasites: Heartworm disease and other parasitic infections can be fatal, but they are often preventable. Your veterinarian may recommend a year-round prevention program that fits your pet’s needs. This is often a pill or chewable medication given to your pet monthly at home. Importantly, remember it will be imperative for you to administer and refill these medications according to the prescription label.
  • Fleas and Ticks: Due to the high populations of year-round insects in the hot, humid climate of the Greater Tampa Bay Area, flea and tick control is essential.  Those tiny bugs can carry serious diseases.  To prevent risks, talk to your veterinarian about affordable options for year-round flea and tick control products suited for Florida pets.

Regularly scheduled veterinary visits are important for healthy pets.  Mark your calendars and set reminders for six-month or one-year check-ups for your furry friends.  In addition to calendar reminders, you might consider downloading an app for your phone and other devices to notify your family when it is time to visit your veterinarian and administer medications.

Our real estate team is here to help keep your pets safe and happy during the home buying and home selling process. Contact Dick and Karla Nielsen today at 813-294-5786 for more information about buying, selling, or investing in Florida Real Estate.