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"QUICK BITE"
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Many of us have been closely monitoring the pet food recall and are concerned for the safety of our pets. The investigation regarding the toxic element in pet foods has not been completed and may not be for quite some time. Until then, it is recommended that pets who have eaten any of the recalled food should visit their veterinarian, especially if there are signs of illness. The veterinarian will perform an examination and run a simple blood test to determine whether your pet may be affected.
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Your Puppy and Vaccines
Immunology is a science that has evolved rapidly over a relatively short period of time. Vaccination is defined as introducing a representative part of an infectious organism into a host so that the host develops immunity to the organism. This immunity relies on stimulating the production of antibodies which will protect the host from that organism. The following list is made up of the most common infectious organisms I see in my practice. All puppies should be vaccinated for these diseases:
Rabies- Puppies should be vaccinated at 4 months for rabies. Rabies is of special importance because it is zoonotic. This means that the virus has the ability to infect humans as well as animals. I have actually been bitten by a rabid cat, a startling reminder that rabies is present in our environment and can affect our families.
Parvovirus- Puppies should be vaccinated at 8, 11, and 14 weeks for parvovirus. Parvovirus causes severe and sometimes fatal destruction of the intestines. We have had several cases recently of parvovirus in adult dogs who have not been vaccinated. This point stresses the importance of regular vaccination not only in puppies, but in dogs as well.
Distemper- Puppies should be vaccinated at 8, 11, and 14 weeks for distemper, often in a combination vaccine that includes parvovirus. Distemper is less common but just as dangerous as parvovirus. This virus can infect the intestines, lungs, and brain.
Leptospirosis- Puppies may need to be vaccinated for this bacteria which is common in the south. It is shed by infected animals throught the urine, often into standing water. The bacteria can cause kidney failure. Check with your veterinarian before vaccinating your animal for leptospirosis because it may not be recommended for certain breeds or for animals who live in certain parts of the country.
Bordatella- Puppies should be vaccinated at 8 weeks for this bacteria. It is part of the disease process that has come to be known as kennel cough, a syndrome that can cause serious flu-like signs in dogs. The vaccine may not provide complete immunity but it will reduce the severity of illness in affected dogs.
This list is by no means complete, but is meant to give the reader an overview of why vaccination is so important in puppies. Vaccine protocol is evolving rapidly so ask your veterinarian about the most recent recommendations for vaccination of your puppy.
Jason Palm, DVM
Hiawassee Veterinary Clinic
6525 Old Winter Garden Road
Orlando, FL 32835
(407) 299-3969 |
