Vaccinations

Why is it important to vaccinate my dog?

Responsible pet care requires all puppies and adult dogs to be protected from preventable diseases through vaccination.

Puppies require a course of vaccinations to ensure they are protected. Puppies receive temporary protection against many diseases by antibodies received through their mother's milk. The antibody levels decline rapidly after birth leaving your puppy susceptible to disease which can be fatal.

What does the vaccination cover?

Puppies and Adult dogs are vaccinated against the following diseases:

Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus is a disease that affects dogs of all ages, its' effect on puppies and older dogs can be more severe.
The virus attacks the intestines causing bloody diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain. It is not necessary to have direct contact with other dogs for the disease to be spread. The virus is so contagious that the infected dog's environment needs to be thoroughly cleaned with a veterinary recommended disinfectant to ensure limited risk to other dogs.

Canine Distemper

Canine Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect dogs of any age, young puppies are at higher risk.

Initial symptoms can include fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, depression and loss of appetite. Later muscle trmors, fits and paralysis can occur. Unfortunately there is a very low rate of recovery.

Canine Hepatitis

Canine Hepatitis is a viral disease, like Distemper is very contagious and often fatal. Again all dogs of all ages can be affected.

Initial symptoms can include high fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. In severe cases death can occur within 24 to 36 hours. Dogs that do recover from Canine Hepatitis can suffer from long term liver and kidney problems.

Canine Cough

Canine Cough is made up of several highly contagious diseases, which is commonly spread in places such as parks, shows, obedience schools and boarding kennels. Among the infectious agents associated with Canine Cough is the bacterium known as Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine viruses parainfluenza

Dogs affected by Canine Cough have a dry hacking cough which can persist for several weeks. This can be very distressing for both dog and owner.

Canine Coronavirus

Canine Coronavirus is a highly contagious virus. symptoms include depression, loss of appetitie, vomiting and diarrhoea. Although most dogs will recover with treatment coronavirus has the potential to be fatal.

Canine Leptospirosis

Canine Leptospirosis is a serious disease risk in some areas. This disease can be fatal. It is spread by the urine of rats and is usually transmitted to dogs by contaminated food and water or by rat bites. High risk areas include rubbish dumps or green sugar cane cuttings where rat populations can be high. Canine Leptospirosis is an animal disease that can be passed to humans who may then suffer a persisting flu like illness.

Are there any side effects my dog may suffer after vaccination?

Ocassionally some dogs may be lethargic and off its food for a day or two, or have some slight swelling at the vaccination site. Access to water, food and a comfortable bed are usually all that is required for a quick recovery. However if you are concerned about the response your dog is having you can always contact us on 5485 0088.