Dog Education

Our dogs need vaccinating each year to protect them from diseases. But which diseases are we actually protecting them from and how important is it that we continue to vaccinate?

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a disease that affects dogs of all ages but is more serious in young pups and older dogs. The virus attacks the intestines causing bloodstained diarrhoea, uncontrollable vomiting and severe abdominal pain. Dogs often die from severe dehydration and blood loss despite intensive veterinary care.

It’s not necessary to have direct contact with other dogs for the disease to spread. The virus is so persistent that the infected dog’s environment needs to be cleaned with a hospital-grade disinfectant to prevent spread. Outbreaks occur regularly throughout Australia, especially in summer.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect dogs of any age with young puppies again being at highest risk.

Symptoms vary but can include fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and depression. Muscle tremors, fits and paralysis usually occur later in the disease. Treatment is usually ineffective and the recovery rate very low. Dogs that do recover may have permanent brain damage.

Canine Hepatitis

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease which, like distemper is extremely contagious and often fatal. Dogs of any age can become infected, however, severe cases are rare in dogs over the age of two years.

Symptoms include high fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea and acute abdominal pain. In severe cases, death can occur within 24- 36 hours. Dogs that recover may develop long term liver and kidney problems and can act as carriers spreading the disease to other dogs for many months

Canine Cough

Canine cough is a condition that is produced by several highly infectious diseases, which can be easily spread wherever dogs congregate, such as parks, shows, obedience schools and boarding kennels. Among the infectious agents associated with canine cough is the bacterium known as Bordetella brochiseptica and the canine virus parainfluenza, adenovirus type 2 and distemper.

Affected dogs have a dry hacking cough which can persist for several weeks. It is distressing for the pet dog and their owners. It is a major problem for working and sporting dogs. Pneumonia can also be a consequence of infection.