Rabies
If vaccinations are the cornerstone of care, then Rabies is the cornerstone of vaccinations. Mandated in nearly every state and country, this vaccination will prevent progressive neurological problems and death should your pet be bitten by an infected animal.
DAPPV
The DAPPV vaccination for dogs is a combination vaccination, meaning it vaccinates against multiple virus’ without having to give multiple injections. The DAPPV stands for:
- Distemper
- Adenovirus Type-1 (Infectious Hepatitis)
- Parainfluenza
- Parvovirus
Distemper
Canine Distemper is a highly contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. It is spread through airborne exposure, shared food, water bowls and equipment. Canine Distemper can also be spread through the placenta from mothers to her puppies.
Infectious Hepatitis
Infectious Hepatitis, also known as Adenovirus Type-1, is a disease that causes inflammation of the liver in dogs and other members of the dog family. It is spread through urine as well as the nose and eye discharges of infected animals.
Parainfluenza
Parainfluenza, one of the viral infections known as kennel cough (the other being Bordetella), is a highly contagious respiratory virus. It is highly recommended for dogs that board, go to daycare, grooming, dog parks, or even have playtime with neighbor dogs.
Parvovirus
The Parvovirus vaccine prevents against a Parvovirus infection which causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and life-threatening sepsis in unprotected dogs. Puppies are particularly susceptible to Parvovirus so this vaccine should start during puppy vaccine visits.
Bordetella
Bordetella, one of the infections known as kennel cough (the other being Parainfluenza), is highly recommended for dogs that board, go to daycare, grooming, dog parks, or even have playtime with neighbor dogs. Bordetella is highly contagious, spreading through aerosol droplets, direct contact, or contact with contaminated surfaces such as water bowls and toys. It is similar to the common cold in grade schools, easily transmitted, usually many contracting it at once, with the most common prescription for treatment being a few weeks of rest and occasionally an antibiotic to prevent secondary infections.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria shed in the urine of infected wild animals. Leptospirosis is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, though it is rare. Most human cases come from recreational activities involving water. When dogs are treated early and aggressively, the chances of recovery are good but there is still a risk of permanent kidney or liver damage.
Canine Lyme Disease
Canine Lyme Disease is transmitted through bacteria in the black-legged tick (aka. Deer Tick). It is the same type of lyme disease humans can get from the same tick. The Deer Tick is common to the midwest and eastern United States so if you or your dog frequent the woods, woodlines, or tall grasses, you should consider the Lyme Disease vaccine for your pet.
