Why We Vaccinate
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Canine distemper is a highly contagious and fatal virus that can affect any dog of any age but puppies are most at risk. The virus is transmitted in discharges from the nose and eyes. Early symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, discharge from the eyes, vomiting, diarrhoea and respiratory problems (coughing, runny nose). Later the dog may show convulsions and other nervous system disorders. If the dog does survive there may be permanent brain damage.
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Canine Hepatitis is another highly infectious virus that damages the liver, like viral hepatitis in humans. Puppies are most at risk and symptoms vary from lethargy and appetite loss to depression, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and even death. The virus is passed on to other dogs from the urine of infected dogs, which can continue for up to 6 months after recovery. Long term kidney and liver problems can occur.
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Unfortunately, Canine Parvovirus still appears all too often. It is a very hardy virus that can survive in the environment for 12 months or more. It is also easily transmitted, so strict hygiene and special disinfectants are required. Parvovirus causes a severe gastroenteritis that affects dogs and puppies of all ages, but is most severe in puppies under 6 months. Death can occur within 24 hours. Symptoms include bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, depression and, in some cases, heart failure.
Canine Cough
Kennel (Canine) Cough is a disease complex caused by a mixture of viruses and bacteria, the 2 main components being the Canine Parainfluenza virus and a bacterium Bordatella bronchiseptica. Though called 'kennel' cough dogs can become infected from any place where dogs mix, including shows, parks, grooming parlours, and training classes. Symptoms aren't fatal but, like the human 'flu', can persist for weeks and cause a harsh, dry cough. In some cases the infection spreads from the upper respiratory tract to the lungs, causing the more serious diseases of pneumonia or bronchitis.
Canine Coronavirus is closely related to Canine Parvovirus and causes gastrointestinal disturbances. In severe cases similar symptoms may be seen, including sudden onset of profuse bloody, watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, depression, anorexia and dehydration. Although the mortality rate is not as high as with Parvovirus, severely affected animals require hospitalisation and intensive treatment. A new vaccine is now available to aid in protection against disease caused by canine coronavirus. This is a combined vaccine with Canine Leptospirosis.
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Canine Leptospirosis is not a common disease in Australia but can be a problem where there are large wild rat numbers and dogs consume food or water contaminated with rat urine. This is mostly a problem around rubbish tips, crop harvests or times of rat plagues. Your vet will advise you if this extra vaccination is required for your dog.
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