Do you know about the various vaccinations available for your pet? Which ones are necessary, and which ones are worth considering? Read on to find out more.

• Rabies - It’s the law for pets to get this vaccination. Rabies is fatal. If a pet without proof of vaccination bites someone, he has to be quarantined for 10 days, and may be euthanized to test the brain tissue for the virus.

• Distemper - Most vets recommend getting this because it prevents a number of viruses, including the parvovirus in dogs, which can be fatal. It also protects cats from respiratory infections.

• Talk to your vet about risks in your area that may indicate need for other vaccinations. For example, your vet may suggest a Lyme disease vaccine. Be aware that this does not give you a pass on checking your pet for ticks! They carry other diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, that the vaccine will not protect against.

For more, visit news.vet.tufts.edu