Canine Distemper (D)
- Canine Distemper is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease of dogs. It is very common in wildlife (fox, skunks, raccoons), and very capable of infecting non-vaccinated dogs. Canine Distemper is characterized by discharge from the eyes and nose, loss of appetite, fever and other respiratory signs. Later in the course of the disease, many dogs will develop problems with their nervous system.
- Prognosis is fair to grave with many dogs redeveloping the illness. The death rate is reported to be about 50% with surviving dogs often having continuing problems.
Adenovirus 2 (A2) and Parainfluenza Virus (P)
- Adenovirus 2 and Parainfluenza virus are contagious respiratory infections that cause symptoms very similar to “Kennel Cough.” Viral infections of the respiratory system damage the airway lining and can easily be complicated by secondary bacterial infections which can make dogs sicker, even possibly leading to pneumonia.
- Vaccination against Adenovirus 2 also gives cross protection against Infectious Canine Hepatitis.
Canine Parvovirus type 2 (P)
- The Canine Parvovirus strain in the puppy and dog populations today causes severe disease and high death rates. Clinical signs include severe diarrhea (usually bloody), vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite, fever and pale mucus membranes.
- Parvovirus causes high death loss especially among puppies.
Is my dog at risk for these diseases?
- These viruses are quite deadly and very easy to transmit. They are as easy to transmit as the common cold. For this reason, RVVS recommends regular vaccination with DA2PP for all dogs.
- For vaccine sensitive dogs, annual blood titers can be done to make sure there are adequate antibody levels for protection. In adulthood, vaccination is recommended every 2-3 years
Can we prevent these viruses?
- Vaccination with this combination product (DA2PP) is very effective in preventing these diseases. It is also very safe.
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