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Vaccinations & Immunizations
CANINE PARVOVIRUS & VACCINATIONS
Canine Parvovirus is probably the single most devastating disease to attack the dog population. In most cases the victim is a young non-vaccinated puppy, six months of age or younger. But an unprotected dog can become infected and extremely ill.
Parvovirus, as the name implies is a virus which is very contagious in the dog population. The virus was first discovered in the late 1970’s in the United Kingdom. Since then it has spread world-wide in epidemic proportions. The virus causes severe damage to the lining of the gastrointestinal track of the infected dogs.
The clinical signs accompanying Parvovirus infection vary from undetectable to severe and rapidly fatal. The infected dog is usually noticed as being lethargic the evening before more overt clinical signs appear. Vomiting and bloody diarrhea are the most common signs, which result in life-threatening dehydration.
The treatment of this devastating disease is mainly aimed at restoring the body’s fluids, controlling the vomiting and diarrhea. Although there is no specific treatment for viral infections, each dog is treated symptomatically, tailored to each individual animals illness. Treatment can be prolonged in serious cases and may be unrewarding.
Concurrent disease and intestinal parasites add to the deadliness of this disease. Ina recent study conducted a Auburn university’s school of veterinary medicine, the mortality rate of Parvovirus increased dramatically when the viral infection was also associated with Canine Coronavirus and intestinal parasitism. This is due to the severe stress of the disease on the dogs immune system along with the added stresses of Corona and intestinal parasites.
Prevention of this deadly disease is the key. A timely vaccination program is the only way to adequately assume your dogs immunity against the disease. Keep in mind that one vaccination will not protect a puppy. The entire staff at the animal clinic I am employed by, cannot recall ever treating a dog for Canine Parvovirus, that has been vaccinated at the clinic, following the vaccination schedule.
Parvovirus is a real threat to your dog. Prevention of this disease is very effective as well as being cost efficient. Intensive and prolonged treatment is often needed to help combat the disease and the expense is much greater than the vaccinations. Especially if you’re dog expires.
IMMUNIZATION
Many canine diseases can now be prevented through vaccination. A vaccination schedule prepared by your veterinarian can thus greatly contribute to good health and a longer life span for your dog. Below are the most important diseases for which vaccines are currently available.
CANINE DISTEMPER
A widespread, often fatal disease. All dogs should be vaccinated against distempermeasles vaccination at 6-9 weeks of age.
CANINE ADENOVIRUS TYPE 1 & TYPE 2
Causes infectious hepatitis and respiratory infection, respectively. Hepatitis caused by adenovirus Type 1 may cause sever kidney damage or death. Adenovirus Type 2 is an important factor in kennel cough.
CANINE BORDETELLA
(Bronchiseptica) May contribute to kennel cough. This bacterial infection can occur alone or in combination with distemper, adenovirus Type 2 infection, parainfluenza, and other respiratory problems.
CANINE LEPTOSPIROSIS
Is a bacterial infection that can lead to permanent kidney damage. The disease is easily spread to other pets and humans.
CANINE PARAINFLUENZA
Is another cause of kennel cough. Although parainfluenza is often a mild respiratory infection in otherwise healthy dogs, it can be severe in puppies or debilitated dogs.
CANINE PARVOVIRUS
Parvovirus, a disease preventable by vaccination.
