Vaccinate Your Pet BEFORE Hurricane Season

image of French bulldogs in dirty hurricane flood waters be careful of leptospirosis

Florida’s storm season doesn’t just bring wind and rain—it creates the perfect environment for dangerous diseases to spread. When hurricanes like Milton pass through, pets face numerous NEW hazards that weren’t there before the storm:

  1. Leptospirosis: Stagnant water and debris after a storm can be contaminated with bacteria from wildlife like raccoons and rodents, leading to serious illness if your pet comes into contact with it.
    • A simple sniff of infected water or soil can cause infection.
  2. Rabies: Displaced wildlife during storms increases the likelihood of encounters with animals that may carry rabies. Your pet could get into fights with these animals, raising the risk of this deadly virus. Vaccination is a critical protective measure.
  3. Heartworm Disease: Post-storm flooding can lead to an explosion in mosquito populations. Mosquitoes carry heartworm larvae, and a bite can transmit this disease to your pet. Heartworm is especially dangerous, as it affects the heart and lungs.
  4. Parvovirus: Floodwaters can spread the parvovirus, which can survive in wet conditions for long periods. This virus is highly contagious, especially for puppies, and attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing severe illness or death.
  5. Tetanus: Debris left behind by storms can hide sharp objects or contaminated areas. If your pet suffers an injury, they are at risk of tetanus, a potentially fatal bacterial infection.
  6. Respiratory Diseases: Pets housed in shelters during evacuations or crowded living conditions face increased exposure to illnesses like kennel cough and feline upper respiratory infections. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of these common airborne diseases.

In the aftermath of a storm, the risk of disease is heightened as your pet explores flood-ridden streets and interacts with displaced animals. Vaccinations provide a strong line of defense, keeping them safe from life-threatening conditions that arise during this vulnerable time.

Take Action Now

Make an appointment today to ensure they’re up to date on all vaccinations. This simple step can save your pet from preventable illnesses during storm season and beyond.