Pet Wellness

Rabies
Rabies virus affects the nervous system. It is spread from animal to animal via saliva through bite wounds and is carried by wildlife (including racoons, skunks, bats and foxes). This virus is always fatal and vaccination is the only prevention. Infected animals, including unvaccinated pets, can spread rabies virus to humans so it is very important to keep your pet up to date on this vaccine. We recommend that all pets get vaccinated for rabies when they are between 12 -16 weeks old. Pets are required to have the Rabies vaccine at the time of their spay or neuter here at SNVC. North Carolina law requires that all dog and cats are vaccinated by 16 weeks of age and be kept up to date on their rabies vaccine through their life.

DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Parainfluenza)
This is a 4-in-one vaccine that protects against the following diseases:
Distemper virus is a disease that causes symptoms including fever, nasal discharge, diarrhea, seizures, and other neurologic signs. This disease is spread by infected wildlife including foxes, coyotes, racoons and skunks. While some dogs may survive distemper, they are often left with permanent neurologic deficits.

Canine hepatitis causes a wide variety of symptoms ranging from fever, lethargy and anorexia to sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and even death. This virus is spread by infected animals including foxes, coyotes and dogs. Canine hepatitis can cause sudden death in young puppies and is sometimes referred to as “fading puppy syndrome”.

Parvovirus is a potentially fatal disease that infects puppies and unvaccinated adult dogs. Parvovirus causes bloody diarrhea, vomiting and anorexia (not eating). Parvovirus is spread via oral contact with bodily fluids from another infected animal and is highly contagious. All canids can carry/become infected with parvovirus including dogs, foxes, coyotes and wolves.

Parainfluenza is one of the causes of kennel cough. It causes respiratory signs such as coughing and sneezing. Parainfluenza is highly contagious between dogs, however it is not typically fatal.

The American Veterinary Medical Association considers DHPP to be a “core vaccine” meaning that all dogs should be kept up to date on this vaccine.

Leptospirosis
The leptospirosis vaccine protects against the bacteria, Leptospira. This bacteria attacks the cells of the kidneys and liver leading to damage of these organs. Symptoms of leptospirosis include increased urination, vomiting and yellowing of the whites of the eyes or of the gums. Wildlife such as mice, raccoons, and deer are often infected and pass the Leptospira bacteria through their urine. The bacteria can then be transmitted to dogs if they drink water that is contaminated (such as out of ponds, streams or puddles). This disease can also be transmitted to humans. Leptospirosis is considered an elective vaccine and is strongly recommended for any dog that may come into contract with contaminated water sources.

Bordetella (a.k.a. Kennel Cough)
This vaccine protects against the Bordetella bacteria which causes disease in the airways and lungs of dogs. Bordetella causes a dry, hacking cough, hence its nickname “Kennel Cough”. Because this bacteria is easily spread between dogs, Bordetella vaccines are often required by groomers, dog parks, dog boarding facilities and to attend dog training classes. NOTE: “Kennel Cough” is a complex of infectious agents (bacteria and viruses) leading to respiratory infection and coughing. Vaccination against the Bordetella bacteria will help lessen the severity of this disease complex but may not entirely prevent it. This is an elective vaccine that is recommended for dogs who will be in contact with other dogs outside of their housemates.

The only way to avoid a heartworm infection is by using heartworm prevention. There are several options for heartworm prevention, ranging from monthly pills, topical medications or a 6-month injection. Speak with us about what option is best for your pet. Heartworm prevention is recommended year-round in North Carolina. As a bonus, many heartworm preventative also provide deworming against intestinal parasites.

Prior to starting heartworm prevention in a dog 6 months old or older, he/she should have a heartworm test to verify that they are negative for heartworms. This test is not needed if they are under 6 months as it is unlikely to show positive that early. It can be very dangerous for your dog to start heartworm prevention if they are already infected with heartworms. Testing is recommended yearly to ensure that your dog is still negative. Heartworm testing is not required in cats.

We know your pet’s health is a top concern for you and your family. We want to help keep your pet safe, comfortable, and happy. That’s why we’ll keep your pets protected from heartworms. We will work with you to set up the best flea and tick preventive plan for your pets.