LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Veterinarians are reporting a decline in pet vaccinations as more pet owners express skepticism about vaccines. These vaccinations are crucial not only for the health of pets but also for public safety, as animals can transmit diseases to humans.
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At the Amanda Foundation, every adoptable dog, including 12-year-old Chi-Chi Larue, is current on vaccinations. Teri Austin, president of the Amanda Foundation, emphasizes the importance of vaccination, advising pet owners to treat their puppies and kittens as they would younger siblings. "They need those vaccines in order to be healthy," she stated.
The foundation has provided pet vaccination services for decades but is now encountering owners who are hesitant about vaccination, reflecting a trend similar to the vaccine skepticism seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. A study published in the journal "Vaccine" found that nearly half of dog owners are reluctant to vaccinate their pets.
Veterinary professionals stress that vaccines prevent diseases that can spread to humans. Core vaccines for pets include those for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and canine hepatitis. Non-core vaccines, such as those for canine flu and kennel cough, may be required for grooming or daycare.
One study indicated that the rabies vaccine prevented nearly 300 infections in dogs in a single year; rabies is almost universally fatal in humans. "We do not mess around with that," said Dr. Ariana Pereira from the 4 Paws Animal Clinic.
In South L.A., Highland Park, Echo Park, and Pacoima, L.A. County's Vector Control has reported a decrease in animal cases of distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis after years of vaccination efforts. Austin stated, "These are life-saving vaccines, and they're the way you can keep your pet to 12, 14, 15, 16 years old."
While concerns about side effects are common, research shows they are extremely rare, occurring in only about 0.2% of dogs. Pereira advises pet owners to monitor their animals for any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Austin noted that cost can be a barrier for many pet owners, recommending they utilize free or low-cost vaccine clinics available at local veterinary offices and pet stores. Organizations like spcaLA often offer reduced fees for vaccinations. "If someone loves their creature and they bond with them, they can usually find a way to make it work," she said.