Important Vaccinations Your Dog Needs
It is extremely important to make sure your pet is vaccinated and seen by his vet regularly. Our Canine companions are prone to certain diseases and illnesses, whether or not they are in contact with other dogs. We have compiled below a list of the most dangerous diseases that all dogs should be vaccinated for.
Having your dog vaccinated as a puppy and keeping his vaccinations up to date throughout his life can prevent many of the illnesses listed below.
Canine Adenovirus
Also known as Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH). ICH is a highly contagious disease transmitted only to dogs and should not be confused with hepatitis in humans. Humans are not affected by the canine infectious hepatitis virus, so there is no danger to you or your family members, however there could be possible danger to other dogs or canine type animals living in your household. It primarily affects the liver, kidneys and lining of the blood vessels and is transmitted in urine, nasal or eye secretions of infected animals.
Puppies and younger dogs are at the highest risk for contracting the disease, although dogs of all ages are susceptible. As with most viral infections, there is not a drug that will kill the virus. However, the virus runs its course in a few days to a couple of weeks. Vaccinations are started at six weeks of age and one is given every three weeks until 15 weeks of age. The first booster is required one year after the pediatric series and then every three years thereafter.
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
CDV is a contagious, viral disease that that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. It is commonly transmitted by contact with infected dogs or their environments (most commonly transmitted through airborne viral particles that dogs breathe in). CDV occurs among domestic dogs and many other carnivores, including raccoons, skunks, and foxes. This disease can often be fatal for puppies and older dogs. There is no cure for CDV, so treatment is supportive. The only way to prevent your dog from contracting this disease is to make sure they have been vaccinated for it in case of exposure. Vaccinations are started at six weeks of age and one is given every three weeks until 15 weeks of age. The first booster is required one year after the pediatric series and then every three years thereafter.
Para Influenza
Para Influenza is a transmissible upper respiratory infection of dogs which is characterized by coughing and gagging. It is also known as tracheobronchitis, which is usually mild but can be serious in young puppies. The group highest at risk for this disease are dogs in crowded and stressful conditions, such as kennels, shelters or dog shows. Vaccinations are started at six weeks of age and one is given every three weeks until 15 weeks of age. The first booster is required one year after the pediatric series and then every three years thereafter.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a serious viral disease affecting the intestines, white blood cells, and heart. Fever, vomiting, dehydration, and severe diarrhea are associated with this disease. In puppies, the disease can often be fatal. In addition, Parvovirus is extremely contagious. Things an infected dog has used and areas an infected dog has inhabited can remain a transmitter for the virus for up to one year. Dogs in crowded and stressful conditions, such as kennels, shelters and dog shows are at the highest risk for the disease. Vaccinations are started at six weeks of age and one is given every three weeks until 15 weeks of age. The first booster is required one year after the pediatric series and then every three years thereafter.
Rabies
Rabies is a serious virus that attacks the brain and is always fatal. Most pets are exposed to rabies by bites from wild animals, particularly skunks, raccoons, bats and foxes. The disease can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected pet. Rabies can affect all unvaccinated warm-blooded animals, including humans. While there is no cure for rabies, it can be prevented with vaccinations for the disease. The first vaccination should be given at about 12 weeks of age. The first booster should be given one year after the initial vaccination and then every three years thereafter. However, please note that in some areas local laws may mandate a greater frequency. Check with your vet if you are unsure of the laws in your state.
Please Note: The information provided above is solely for the purpose of informing and educating our visitors and should not be used to replace the advice or care of a professional, qualified veterinarian. If you think your dog may have any of the illnesses listed above, please contact your vet as soon as possible to have your pet seen.