With the reemergence of diseases long thought conquered, the health of our four-legged friends could be at risk.

For example, discussion relating to the recent measles outbreak in children also has ramifications for pets. The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that refusal to vaccinate pets could mean losing ground to dangerous diseases we’ve come to control in the United States. For example, rabies is now rarely seen in dogs. Likewise, parvovirus, distemper, and panleukopenia [pan-luke-oh-PEE-nee-ah] are much less common than they were before the days of routine vaccination programs.

While some pet parents point to adverse reactions that could occur after vaccination, evidence shows that the benefits are much greater than any possible risks.

For those of you still not convinced, talk to your veterinarian about the pros and cons of vaccination.