Vaccinations

Puppy Wellness Vaccines

Vaccinations are a part of the Wellness services we offer at Westside Family Pet Clinic. We follow the recommendations set forth by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). For more detailed information see the AAHA website http://www.aahanet.org/

Distemper: Distemper is a viral disease that is transmitted from dog to dog, mostly through coughing but can be shed in the urine of an infected dog. Although rare, it is seen mostly in puppies in shelters, puppy mills and pet stores. The disease causes pneumonia, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, callusing of the nose and footpads, and can lead to seizures. Puppies should receive their first vaccination against distemper between 7-10 weeks of age, and ever 3-4 weeks thereafter for a total of four injections.

Parvovirus: Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that is life threatening for puppies. The virus attacks the cells lining the small intestine causing vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and possibly death. Treatment is supportive. Puppies should receive their first vaccination against parvovirus 7-10 weeks of age, and ever 3-4 weeks thereafter for a total of four injections.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis: Hepatitis is a viral infection (spread through urine and feces) that causes fever, tonsillitis, eye and nose discharge, and eventual systemic spread that leads to liver damage. After recovery, a dog may develop changes to the cornea and internal structures of the eye resulting in “blue eye”. Puppies should receive their first vaccination against hepatitis between 7-10 weeks of age.

Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis (Lepto) is a bacterial disease that is present in the environment. It is usually transmitted in urine from infected dogs or wildlife (especially rodents) or urine contaminated soil, water or food. It can cause liver and kidney damage to dogs and can even be transmitted to people. There are numerous types (serovars) of lepto but we are presently able to vaccinate against only 4 types. Puppies should receive their first vaccination against lepto between 13-16 weeks of age. It is given annually to most dogs and every 6 months to those with high exposure.

Bordetella: Bordetella or Kennel Cough is a mixed viral/bacterial disease that is aerosolized between dogs. It is seen mostly where dogs are housed together, such as in kennels, shelters, pet stores, etc. It causes a dry, hacking cough that ends in gagging or retching. It may also cause a fever, inappetance and lethargy. Puppies at risk should receive their first vaccination against kennel cough at 10-13 weeks of age and then yearly afterwards. Dogs at higher risk should receive it every 6 months.

Lyme: Lyme disease is a serious, fast-growing disease caused by a spirochete transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick. It can cause fever, lameness/stiffness that can shift to various joints, depression, inappetance and even neurological signs. If left untreated, it can have long-term detrimental effects on animals and people. Puppies at risk should receive their first vaccination against Lyme Disease between 10-13 weeks of age.

Rabies: Rabies is a fatal viral disease carried by wild carnivores such as skunks, raccoons and bats. By law, all dogs must receive a rabies vaccination. Puppies should receive their first vaccination against rabies between 16-18 weeks of age.