A leading vet has warned of the dangers of pet owners refusing to vaccinate their animals.

Dr Jessica May (pictured), the UK lead vet at online vet clinic FirstVet says: “Vaccinating our animals, just like people, is extremely important. We know that 'prevention is better than cure', and as pet owners it is our duty to protect those animals in our care.

“Some diseases have limited, complicated or no treatment options available. We use vaccinations to improve animal welfare by preventing debilitating and often fatal illnesses.

“For example, Myxomatosis is a highly contagious and usually fatal disease of rabbits, which is preventable by giving an annual vaccination.

“Another example is Leptospirosis, which we vaccinate dogs against. In humans it is known as Weil's disease. Leptospirosis is spread in urine or contaminated water, and can be fatal to both dogs and humans.

“Vaccination programmes have enabled us to eradicate two diseases globally. First, Smallpox was eradicated in humans. Secondly, Rinderpest (cow plague), a devastating disease of livestock, was officially eradicated in 2011.”

Dr May’s comments follow a report in the Daily Telegraph in which the British Veterinary Association claims that dog and cat owners are refusing to inoculate their pets.

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