Canine Vaccines

Rabies-   Of all animal diseases, rabies is probably the most feared.  The rabies virus attacks the brain and is always fatal.  Most pets are exposed to rabies by bites from wild animals which can then be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected pet.  Vaccination of all dogs and cats is the most effective means of control.

Canine Distemper-  This highly contagious viral disease is found wherever dogs are found.  It affects the respiratory and nervous system and is often fatal.  Primary vaccination should begin at 6-12 weeks of age since dogs often contract the disease at an early age. 
 
Canine Parvovirus-  This contagious viral disease usually causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in dogs of all ages, but is especially deadly in puppies.

Canine Parainfluenza-  This viral respiratory disease is often partly responsible for “kennel cough” in dogs.  Infection can be severe in young puppies.  Parainfluenza protection is often included in distemper-parvo vaccines.

Canine Adenovirus Type 1 and Type 2-  Canine Adenovirus Type 1 infection causes infectious hepatitis which may lead to severe kidney damage.  Type 2 can be a complicating factor in kennel cough.  Vaccines are available that protect against both types of adenovirus.

Canine Leptospirosis-  Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease carried by many wild animals.  A dog can contract the disease from infected animals or by drinking contaminated water.  Yearly vaccination limits your dog’s chances of acquiring the disease.

Canine Bordetella-  Frequently involved in kennel cough complex, this bacterial infection may occur simultaneously with distemper, adenovirus type 2 infection , parainfluenza, and other respiratory infections. 

Canine Borreliosis (Lyme Disease)-  Borreliosis, or Lyme Disease, is an infection caused by a bacteria which is spread primarily by the painless bite of an infected tick.  Symptoms of Borreliosis in the dog include fever, lethargy, muscle stiffness, depression, and lack of appetite.  In more severe cases, lameness occurs as a result of severe musculoskeletal or arthritic type joint pain.