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Rabies
Bordetella
Giardia
Lyme
There are several
diseases that can affect puppies. Not all pets are at risk
for the same diseases. That is why each pet needs to have
a risk assessment done to determine which vaccines are needed
for protection. Below is a brief description of the vaccines
we routinely use the diseases that each is trying to prevent.
DHP-P-C
The "5-in-1"
or "Distemper-Parvo" vaccine is most vital.The "alphabet"
of disease are the following:
D- Distemper
H- Hepatitis
P- Parainfluenza
P- Parvo
C- Coronav
Of these, the most common infections we see at Oasis Animal
Clinic are Parvo and Distemper.
Parvo is a viral
infection that causes affected puppies to become lethargic,
lose their appetite, vomit, and have profuse, bloody diarrhea.
It is potentially fatal, and must be treated with fluids,
electrolytes, and intense nursing care. The cost of treatment
for Parvovirus is very high, due to the nursing care that
is required. Typically, puppies are in the hospital for 2-5
days. The most common mistake people make with vaccines is
to stop giving them too soon. We recommend that each puppy
receive at least 3 vaccines, three weeks apart with the last
one being administered after they turn 16 weeks old. Certain
breeds of dogs are more susceptible to parvovirus, and in
those breeds we recommend vaccines up to age 18 weeks.
Distemper
is a viral infection that seems to occur more frequently now
than in years past. The symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea,
nasal and ocular discharge, coughing and lesions on the footpads
and nose. Vaccines given at three week intervals are very
effective unless a puppy has already contracted the disease
prior to the first vaccines being given.
Rabies
Rabies is of special
concern because it can be fatal to all mammals. State law
requires that all dogs over 16 weeks of age be current on
their rabies vaccines. The interval for giving rabies vaccines
is a function of where you live. In Arizona, all dogs must
be vaccinated as puppies and then 12 months later. After the
second vaccine, a booster is given every three years.
Bordetella
Bordetella is a
common disease with a common name-Kennel Cough. It derives
its name from the fact that many dogs show the symptoms after
being in close contact with other dogs (as in a kennel.) The
symptoms are limited to coughing, sneezing, and occasional
nasal discharge. Most kennels and many groomers require that
a pet have a current vaccine before being boarded or groomed
to prevent the spread or the disease and limit liability to
themselves. We recommend this vaccine as a part of the routine
puppy series.
Giardia
Giardia is a parasite
that infects dogs, cats and other mammals. Even people can
be infected by giardia. It is diagnosed by examining a stool
sample under the microscope. Typical symptoms are diarrhea
and occasionally vomiting. Many times, we diagnose giardia
in pets that are not exhibiting any symptoms. There is a new
vaccine available to not only prevent giardia, but to treat
pets that are infected. We recommend vaccinating pets with
a history of infection or pets that travel to the surrounding
forests and lakes.
Lyme
Disease
Lyme disease is
a serious infection that is spread from one animal to another
by the bite of a tick. While we have many ticks in Arizona,
the actual disease is not a threat in this part of the United
States. If you are traveling to other parts of the United
States, please consult with us and we can advise you on the
risk and need for vaccination.
©2004 Oasis Animal Clinic. All Rights Reserved.
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