The vaccines
given to puppies and adult dogs consist of core and non-core
vaccines. The core vaccines are given
to all dogs, and represent some of the more significant infectious
diseases. These vaccines include: Rabies, Canine Distemper
Virus, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza, and Canine Parvovirus. The
non-core vaccines are catered more towards the lifestyle
of the dog, meaning that their administration is dependent
more on the risk of exposure to the disease. The vaccines
that are available include: Bordatella bronchiseptica (Kennel
Cough), Leptospirosis, and Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme Disease).
Core Vaccinations
Rabies
The Rabies virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected
animal, most commonly bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. It
causes a fatal brain and spinal cord infection, and signs
of disease can vary from depression and dementia to aggressiveness. The
virus can be shed for up to 14 days before signs of infection
are apparent. The virus can be shed by the infected
animal for a variable length of time, ranging from days to
months. This disease is not only fatal to the infected
animal, but is a considerable public health issue because
it can be transmitted in the same manner to humans. Vaccination
against Rabies is generally required by law, and is done
once at 16 weeks of age and then boostered once a year. Depending
on public health regulations, new three-year vaccines may
now be used by your veterinarian.
Canine Distemper Virus
Distemper in dogs was once very common, but thanks to widespread
vaccination, has now become quite rare and almost unheard
of in vaccinated dogs. This virus affects multiple
organ systems and can involve the brain. Again, signs
of infection can vary and include discharge from the eyes
and nose, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea; neurological
signs soon follow, progressing to trouble walking and seizures.
Treatment is usually futile and the prognosis for survival
is poor, which is why vaccination against this disease
is so important. This vaccine is given at 8, 12,
and 16 weeks, and then boostered once a year from then
on.
Adenovirus Type 2
Canine Adenovirus Type 2 is a component of a syndrome known
as Kennel Cough, characterized by a hacking cough, wheezing,
and difficulty breathing. This vaccine also protects
against Infectious Canine Hepatitis, an often acutely fatal
disease that causes destruction of the liver. This
vaccine is given to puppies along with the other core vaccines
at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and then boostered yearly.
Parainfluenza
This virus causes a respiratory infection known as Canine
Infectious Tracheobronchitis, and is another major component
of Kennel Cough. It is acquired by close contact
with other infected dogs, most commonly at boarding facilities,
dog parks, and puppy classes. Signs to watch for
include: coughing, gagging, and retching. This vaccine
is given in combination with the other core vaccines at
8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and then boostered once a year
from then on.
Canine Parvovirus
Canine Parvoviral Enteritis is a serious and not uncommon
disease in unvaccinated puppies. The virus destroys
the cells in the intestines, causing vomiting, diarrhea,
and intestinal bleeding. Immune suppression can also
result when the virus infects the bone marrow. For
some unknown reason, there is evidence that Doberman Pinchers,
Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, and Labrador Retrievers are more
susceptible to infection. The virus persists for
a long time in its environment, and thrives in unsanitary
conditions. The vaccine for Canine Parvovirus is
given to puppies in combination with the other core vaccines
at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, and then once yearly.
Non-Core Vaccinations
Bordatella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)
Bordatella is another component of the syndrome known as
Kennel Cough, and should be administered to high risk dogs. This
consists of dogs being boarded or attending puppy classes,
and many facilities now require vaccination before the dog
can be admitted. The vaccine can be given via a squirt
in the nose or injected under the skin, and yearly boosters
are recommended to maintain immunity.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a re-emerging disease of great importance
in both rural and urban areas. It thrives when the
climate is warm and moist, and as a result, is most common
in the spring and fall. It is spread by contact with
urine from infected “host species”, which can
include: raccoons, skunks, mice, voles, cattle, and pigs. Dogs
can come into contact with contaminated urine in their
environment in the form of water dishes, shallow ponds
or puddles. The disease can range from mild to fatal,
often causing severe kidney failure and liver disease. Furthermore,
the organism is transmissible to humans, and care must
be taken to ensure all areas of possible contamination
be disinfected. Vaccination for dogs with potential
exposure is recommended because of the serious illness
associated with this disease.
Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme Disease)
Lyme Disease is transmitted by the Deer Tick (Ixodes scapularis)
that carries the organism in endemic areas. Signs of
disease include arthritis, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. Behavrioural
changes and neurological signs may also be observed, including
seizures. Consult your veterinarian to find out if
Lyme Disease is important in your area, or if you are traveling
to an endemic area with your dog.
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