Rabies, Bordetella, DHPP & spay/neuter are Mandatory.

 Rabies is a fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS) and can be spread to humans and pets through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Rabies is rare in the United States, with fewer than 10 deaths reported each year. However, it poses a serious public health threat because of its high death rate in people.
 

 The Bordetella vaccine is a noncore vaccine usually given to dogs that are frequently exposed to other dogs in boarding or social settings. Canine facilities, such as dog daycare centers, boarding kennels, shows, dog parks, and training classes often require dogs to have the vaccine. This is because Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common bacterial agent responsible for kennel cough in dogs. 

This is a combination shot that vaccinates against four diseases. Because different veterinarians have different names for this shot, the best thing to do is verify that the shot protects against Distemper and Parvo.

It’s common for adult dogs to receive a 3-year booster shot for DHPP. For puppies, the DHPP vaccination should be current in the last year. The DHPP vaccine is a core vaccination for dogs that protects against four common and contagious viral diseases: 

• Canine distemper: A viral infection that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological systems 
• Adenovirus (hepatitis): A viral infection of the liver 
• Parvovirus: A viral infection of the gastrointestinal system that causes vomiting and bloody diarrhea 
• Parainfluenza: A viral infection of the respiratory system that is part of kennel cough 

The canine influenza vaccine is made up of both strains of canine influenza virus – H3N8 and H3N2 – which makes the vaccine ‘bivalent’. Canine influenza vaccines are killed vaccines, which means they contain inactivated (killed) canine influenza virus. The killed influenza viruses found in the vaccine stimulate a dog’s immune system to create antibodies against dog flu without causing disease. 

Dogs that have been vaccinated against canine influenza may still show symptoms of dog flu if they are exposed to canine influenza virus, however, vaccinated dogs tend to have milder symptoms and shed less virus into the environment.

 The Lyme disease vaccine is not recommended for all dogs, but it can be a good option for dogs that live in or travel to areas where Lyme disease is common. A veterinarian will consider several factors when deciding if the vaccine is right for your dog, including: 

• Risk of Lyme disease in your area: The Northeastern United States, mid-Atlantic states, and upper Midwest are high-risk areas for Lyme disease. 
• Your dog's lifestyle and overall health: The vaccine is not recommended for sick dogs or those with kidney issues. 
• Travel plans: If you plan to travel with your dog, the vaccine can help protect them. 

 Both fleas and ticks can carry a variety of dangerous diseases that they pass on to their hosts when they bite. These include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and bartonellosis. Fleas can also transmit internal parasites, like tapeworms, to pets. 

If you believe your pet may have fleas or ticks, please inform us when making your appointment. This way we can take the precautions we need.