Welcome back to the vaccine series from “Pet Talk”! This edition will focus on common noncore vaccines that may be recommended based on your lifestyle, your geographical location, and even your future vacation plans. If you missed our core vaccine edition, read it here now to catch up and get in the know about all things vaccine related to your canine companion!
Some pooches live for doggie daycare and the company of others, and if that describes your dog or if you are planning on training or boarding your dog in the future, the Bordetella or kennel cough vaccine is a must. Kennel cough can be spread by dogs coming into close contact with other infected dogs, and it causes an upper respiratory infection that is highly contagious. If your pet will be spending time in a boarding facility, dog park, or other place with many dogs, it is wise to update this vaccine every 6 months to a year, depending on your dog’s amount of exposure. For the most benefit, it is recommended to have the vaccination done at least 2 weeks prior to exposure.
Some dogs are masters of every nook and cranny of the farm, or huge fans of summers at the lake, just like their owners. If this is the case for your pooch, they could be at higher risk of exposure to tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, which causes fever, lameness, swelling of joints, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Severe cases of Lyme disease can also cause kidney failure, or heart or nervous system disease.
Leptospirosis can be transmitted between animals through bodily fluids and the ingestion of infected tissue, or through contaminated water sources. The bacteria causes acute infections, shivering, and muscle tenderness, and can lead to kidney and liver failure if not properly treated. While this vaccination is noncore, it is vital depending on your lifestyle and geographical area and can be included in the core combination shot if requested.
Depending on your unique lifestyle or if you are planning on taking your dog on vacation, you may want to also request other noncore vaccinations, such as the measles and rattlesnake vaccines; talk to your veterinarian to see what is recommended to keep your furry friend their happiest and healthiest. You will also want to make sure that your pooch is up-to-date on their heartworm, flea, & tick preventatives to help prevent a host of other diseases they may be susceptible to. To learn more or schedule your annual exam and vaccination boosters, contact us at 701.757.3500.