We've talked about vaccines before but I want to talk about it more in depth today. Here we go!
Infectious Disease of Liver and Kidneys
Leptospirosis (Lepto):
Lepto is a serious bacterial disease of mammals such as dogs AND humans. Diagnosis of lepto can be difficult, and if left untreated, death may occur. Lepto bacteria are harbored in the bodies of wildlife, rodents, livestock, and are shed in the urine of infected animals. Any surface water contaminated by this urine represents a source of infection to your pet. Increased rainfall may elevate your pet's risk of contracting leptospirosis. While many organs may be infected by the lepto bacteria, the liver and/or kidneys are the most frequently affected. It is important to take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible if your pet appears ill.
Clinical signs may include:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Kidney Failure
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Jaundice
Hepatitis:
This virus is spread by contact with urine, feces and other secretions from infected animals. The liver is the primary organ affected and death is possible is severe cases.
Clinical signs include:
Chronic form:
- Lethargy
- No Appetite
Acute form:
- Fever
- Bloody Diarrhea
- Vomiting Blood
- Refusal to Eat
- Painful Movement
- Clouding of Cornea (called Blue Eye)
Tick-Borne Disease
Lyme Disease:
The bacteria which causes Lyme disease in dogs and humans is carried by a specific tick species. Infected ticks, as small as the heads of a pin, may inhabit lawns and gardens, as well as fields and forests. Lyme disease can be difficult to diagnose because of the long incubation period and vague, arthritic, flu-like symptoms. As the disease progresses, Lyme-causing bacteria damage many different organs including the liver, heart, nervous system and kidneys.
Clinical signs may include:
- Lameness
- Anorexia
- Depression
- Inflammation Leading to Vital Organ Dysfunction
- Fever
- Stiffness
- Joint Pain/Swelling
Gastrointestinal Disease
Parvovirus:
This highly contagious and debilitating virus is spread through infected fecal material. It is a very hardy virus and can survive in the environment for months or years. In severe cases, it can lead to shock and death. Vaccination against parvovirus is extremely important for all dogs,
Clinical signs may include:
- Severe Depression
- Loss of Appetite
- Vomiting
- High Fever
- Profuse Diarrhea
Coronavirus:
This virus causes serious disease leading to death when it strikes in tandem with parvovirus. Puppies are particularly susceptible to severe symptoms. Infected dogs shed the virus through their feces.
Clinical signs may include:
- Mild to Moderate Depression
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Contagious Respiratory Disease
Kennel Cough or Tracheobronchitis:
Several types of bacteria and viruses are known to cause infection and inflammation of the lungs and respiratory passages of dogs. The most prevalent are adenovirus type 2, parainfuenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Dogs exposed to high-population situations such as daycare, shelters, breeding facilities, boarding or the show circuit are at risk. These environments can increase stress and exposure to disease.
Clinical signs may include:
- Harsh, Dry, Hacking Cough
Nervous System Disease
Distemper:
Vaccination against distemper virus is essential for all dogs. Nearly every dog will be exposed to distemper virus in its lifetime. In its final stages, distemper may cause convulsions. Death may occur one to three after infection.
Clinical signs may include:
Early clinical signs:
- Fever
- Loss of Appetite
- Listlessness
- Dry Cough
- Watery Discharge from Eyes and Nose (discharge becomes yellow and thick)
- Diarrhea
Later clinical signs:
- Brain Involvement
- Head Shaking
- Chewing Movements
- Seizures
- Confusion
Rabies:
This is a fatal viral disease of all mammals including dogs, cats, livestock and humans. Infected wildlife and unvaccinated animals are the source of this virus. Because rabies is a significant health hazard, it is extremely important to vaccinate your pet. In may states and cities, rabies vaccines is required by law.
All information is from a pamphlet from Boehringer Ingelheim and BeVaccineSMART.com
All information is from a pamphlet from Boehringer Ingelheim and BeVaccineSMART.com
0 comments:
Post a Comment