Rabies:
A viral disease of the nervous system that is BOTH fatal and transmissible to humans. A rabies diagnosis must be verified with laboratory tests and the animal must be euthanized. This vaccine is required by law and must be given by a licensed veterinary hospital.
“DHPP/DHLPP”
D – Distemper: A viral infection that can affect several body systems, including the respiratory and nervous system. It is characterized by fever, loss of white blood cells, and inflammation of the lungs and brain. Most cases can develop after an animal breathes in the virus from an infected animal.
H – Hepatitis/Adenovirus 2: A respiratory virus that is spread by bodily fluids including nasal discharge and urine. Initially, the virus affects the tonsils and the larynx causing a sore throat, cough and occasionally pneumonia. As it progresses, it can affect the kidneys, eyes & liver.
P – Parainfluenza: A respiratory virus that causes mild respiratory tract infections and is transmitted via contact with the nasal fluids of infected dogs.
P – Parvovirus: A potentially fatal viral disease that most often affects puppies or unvaccinated adult dogs. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with an infected dog as well as indirect transmission such as contaminated objects by feces. Some symptoms may include: sudden lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
L – Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection of the urinary tract. This disease enters the bloodstream via infected urine and can cause kidney failure, liver failure and death. It can be transmissible to humans. Some signs/symptoms can include: fever, joint pain, nausea, low platelet count (excessive bleeding), depression and loss of appetite. Can be commonly seen in rat urine and standing puddles of water.
Bordetella: A bacterial component of kennel cough. This disease is highly contagious. The most common signs are harsh, dry coughing, which may be followed by retching & gagging. Dogs that are housed in close confinement with other dogs (boarding, grooming, daycare) should be vaccinated. Boosters should be administered biannually or annually, depending on risk and veterinarian’s advice. Can be given intranasally, orally, or by injection.
Canine Influenza (H3N8/H3N2): A respiratory infection including ocular and nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, and depression that can lead to pneumonia. The vaccine is proven to reduce the incidence and severity of coughing, reduce the days and amount of viral shedding, decrease the overall clinical signs of disease, protect against the formation and severity of lung lesions. Dogs that are housed in close confinement with other dogs (boarding, grooming, daycare) should be vaccinated.
Vaccine Reactions
It is common for pets to experience some or all of the following mild side effects after receiving a vaccine, usually starting within hours of the vaccination. If these side effects last for more than 48 hours, or cause your pet significant discomfort, it is important for you to contact your veterinarian:
- Mild discomfort and local swelling at the injection site
- Reluctant to walk/run
- Decreased appetite ( lasting for one or two feedings)
- Mild fever, sneezing, coughing. A “snotty nose” or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal/oral vaccine
- Difficulty breathing
More serious, but less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. Seek veterinary care immediately if any of these signs develop:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Itchy skin that may seem bumpy (“hives”)
- Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes
- Severe coughing or difficulty breathing
- Collapse
Sometimes a small firm swelling (“lump”) may develop at the injection site . This is expected to resolve within 1 month with the exception of the rabies vaccine that lump may be observed for up to 4 months. Contact us if the swelling:
- Causes severe pain
- Continues to grow/ulcerate/and changes characteristics
- Persist beyond 5 months.
Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. We can personalize a vaccine premedication protocol for your pet. If in doubt, wait for 30-60 minutes following vaccination before taking your pet home.
