Here at Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic, we are dedicated to protecting your pets from distemper, parvo, and other diseases.
The distemper vaccination, which is made to keep your pets safe, will protect your dog from a host of diseases including distemper, hepatitis, parvo, and parainfluenza.
Distemper is a virus that is passed through direct contact with urine, blood, or saliva. Most dogs get it by coughing and sharing food bowls. Signs of it can include sneezing and coughing. As the disease progresses, you may notice that your dogs are just not feeling well. They may be lethargic, depressed, or not have an appetite. Fever, vomiting, and diarrhea can also be symptoms.
Hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver, can affect dogs differently than humans. You may notice a lack of appetite along with weight loss. Many dogs will vomit, which leads to even more weight loss. Dogs will urinate and drink more than normal. Their gums and other tissues may appear to be yellow. If left untreated, hepatitis can cause nervous system issues like balance problems and seizures.
Parvo is mostly seen in puppies and can be deadly. It causes vomiting and diarrhea, lack of appetite, and weight loss. Parvo is mainly seen in puppies whose moms are not vaccinated. Parvo is devastating because puppies lose weight and become weak from being unable to eat while losing all of their fluids due to vomiting and diarrhea. Usually you have to treat the symptoms and hope that your puppy is strong enough to recover.
Parainfluenza virus is a respiratory virus that is quite contagious. Dogs are contagious for up to two weeks after they are infected. The virus is transmitted through the air and can affect a whole kennel or shelter pretty quickly. Dogs who have parainfluenza will cough and may have discharge coming from their noses. Many have a fever and are not interested in eating.
Luckily for most people, these diseases (distemper, hepatitis, parvo, and parainfluenza) are easily prevented by vaccinations. By continuing to vaccinate your dogs, you will be able to protect them from the symptoms of these diseases and death.
If you have any questions about distemper, hepatitis, parvo, and parainfluenza or would like to vaccinate your dogs against these diseases, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (269) 963-9347.