Rabies: Rabies is a fatal condition that may be
contracted via saliva and/or bite wounds from unknown sources, and is transmissible to individuals, human and animal, through
contact with infected fluids and tissues. It is law that this vaccine is given to all pets before their 6 month birthday
and then if given again after 9 months and before a years time it can be given as a 3 year vaccine. The local animal control
authorities will be notified if you fail to comply with the law.
Canine Distemper: This vaccine includes immunotherapy for Paramyxovirus, Parvovirus, Hepatitis
/ Corona Virus, Leptospirosis, and Parainfluenza, all of which can make your pet sick, as well as lead to death. These viruses
are transmitted by saliva, nasal discharge, and fecal matter that may be left behind on inanimate objects, including the grass
in heavily traveled dog areas, and grooming equipment, as well as by direct contact with a seemingly healthy individual, (carrier
state). It is strongly recommended that this vaccine be boostered according to your veterinarian's recommendations (usually
annually), which are based on the potential exposure level in your pet's local environment. This vaccine is required for all
boarding purposes.
Canine Lyme Vaccination:
Lyme Disease is transmitted by ticks of all varieties and is heavily diagnosed in clinically healthy dogs that have
been unknowingly previously exposed. This vaccination is used to prevent the transmission of more Borrelia Borgdorferi (causative
agent) in addition to any that may previously exist within the dog's system. Lyme Disease has been shown to cause kidney failure,
heart disease, and severe osteoarthritis; is not curable unless detected early in the course of the disease.
Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis (Included in the Distemper vaccine)
is prevalent in the wildlife population, (deer, raccoon, fox) and is responsible for acute liver and kidney failure in dogs.
It is difficult to treat and is also a zoonotic, meaning transmissible to humans, via your pet's saliva and urine, therefore
it also poses a human health risk. Unless there is a proven sensitivity to this part of the vaccination, we strongly recommend
that your pet be vaccinated for it. Many individuals blame this part of the vaccine for reaction, but usually these reactions
are mild and pass with appropriate antihistamine treatment. Please ask your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.
Bordetella: The Bordatella Bronchiseptica vaccination
helps prevent a particular bacterin is one of several that can lead to "Kennel Cough", and typically produces good
immune response in the individual's receiving this vaccines. It may be given either via nose drops, or as an injection. Your
pet is at risk for exposure in any environment where numerous dog's have visited, ie. Grooming facilities, kennels, parks,
waiting rooms, obedience classes. As with all vaccines, it is not a guarantee, but if exposed, your pet would have a better
chance of fighting the subsequent infection and clinical signs that could possibly develop. We recommend this as an annual
vaccine after the initial series. The exception to this is if you board frequently or show your dog, then we recommend vaccinating
every six months.
Feline Distemper: The
Feline Distemper Vaccination includes immunotherapy for Viral Rhinotracheitis ( Herpes), Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (Parvovirus).
These are viruses that are transmissible between individuals via saliva and nasal discharge, and may be airborn or left as
residuals on inanimate objects such as furniture or blades of grass. Each of these may cause significant disease in an immunocompromised
patient, including eye and mouth ulcers, nasal discharge, diarrhea, a weakened immune system, and sometimes death. Please
ask your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.
Feline Leukemia: The
Feline Leukemia Virus Vaccination is recommended for higher risk individuals that may have exposure to unknown sources of
the virus, typically outdoor cats. This virus is easily transmissible via saliva and nasal discharge, but may also live for
a short while on contaminated surfaces, such as water bowls and dishes. This virus lives in the bone marrow and is usually
fatal if contracted, but the time frame varies from a few weeks to a few months or years. The vaccination is 80% effective
in trial studies with high exposure levels, and is annual once the initial series of two has been completed within the required
time frame. We require testing for the virus prior to vaccination, which can be done by a technician and done while you wait.
