Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that infects cell of the nervous system, producing incoordination and behavioral abnormalities such as unusual aggression or withdrawal. Once the signs of rabies appear, the disease is always fatal. Rabies is most commonly transmitted by bite wounds from infected wildlife.

 

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus enteritis is an intestinal disease that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting which can become fatal due to dehydration and loss of appetite. Unvaccinated puppies and young dogs are most commonly affected because of their susceptibility to infection.  Viral enteritis is easily spread because of the large volume of virus in the feces which contaminates the environment.

 

Canine Distemper Virus

Canine distemper virus infects various tissues in the dogs body, producing diarrhea, fever, nasal and ocular discharge, respiratory disease, appetite loss and neurologic signs such as muscular spasms and paralysis. The disease is transmitted easily and often fatal.

 

Canine Hepatitis Virus

Infectious canine hepatitis is a worldwide disease of dogs infecting a wide range of tissues, including the liver, kidneys, spleen, and lungs. Death, chronic hepatitis or severe illness may occur.

 

Canine Adenovirus Type 2 / Canine Parainfluenza Virus / Bordetella

These viruses are the most common causes of respiratory infections which are a troublesome problem in dogs because they can be easily transmitted through air or direct contact.

 

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis can infect dogs that are in contact with urine from infected wildlife, or contaminated water.  It affects the kidneys and liver causing fever, anorexia, depression, and generalized pain and can be difficult to diagnose. It is a zoonotic disease meaning it can be transmitted to humans through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.

 

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is well known in our area and is spread by the deer tick. It can affect animals differently but many cases begin with limping, lymph node swelling and fever.  Other signs include loss of appetite, painful joints and lethargy.

 

 

***Vaccination/Disease information acquired from Pfizer Animal Health