All Dogs Should be Vaccinated to Prevent Potentially Harmful and Deadly Diseases
Distemper
This is a viral disease that is easily spread through direct contact, contact with bodily fluids, or contaminated food and water. Puppies are the most susceptible to the disease and also have the highest mortality rate from severe cases or complications of the disease. Vaccinations have proven to be effective, so it is important to have your puppy vaccinated. The disease can be treated if contracted but requires quarantining your dog from other dogs for many months, and the disease can also result in some long-term health problems.
Type 2 Adenovirus
This virus leads to the infection commonly known as “kennel cough” in dogs. It is very contagious and is characterized by a hacking cough and a foamy white discharge. This vaccine is required in most areas.
Bordetella
Bordetella is a bacteria that can cause kennel cough. There are vaccines available to help prevent this.
Leptospirosis
This disease brings on symptoms of fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, and depression and it could lead to chronic kidney or liver disease. Although potentially severe, this disease is very uncommon in most areas. Depending on where you live, this vaccination might not be necessary.
Parvovirus
This disease is more commonly referred to as “parvo” and is one of the leading causes of viral infections in dogs. It is highly contagious and transmitted by direct or indirect contact with contaminated feces. There are cardiac and intestinal forms of the disease, both of which are fatal in most cases when left untreated. The vaccination is highly recommended and is given in a series of shots starting when the puppy is about 8 weeks old.
Coronavirus
Coronavirus is very similar to the intestinal form of parvovirus in its symptoms. It results in vomiting and diarrhea, mostly affecting puppies. The difference is that coronavirus, while still dangerous to your dog, is usually not fatal. For prevention keep your dog in clean conditions and be careful when around other dogs. Your dog can also be vaccinated for this disease, and it is usually good for their lifetime.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is transmitted from ticks. These small insects are found in wooded areas, areas with tall, overgrown grass, or brush. If you live in areas where these environments exist, it is smart to take proper precautions to prevent Lyme disease. If your dog does become ill with Lyme disease, you will notice that the dog will walk with a limp or favor the area where the tick has bitten it. The tick needs to be removed, and you should consult your vet for proper treatment.
