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Canine Influenza H3N8 & H3N2 are contagious respiratory diseases caused by the influenza virus. It is spread by direct contact through the air during coughing, sneezing or contaminated objects. Recent outbreaks have become more common in the United States among unvaccinated dogs. Clinical signs may include fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, coughing and decreased appetite.
Lyme disease is caused by a spirochete called Borrelia burgdorferi. A spirochete is a type of bacterium. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick. Once in the bloodstream, the Lyme disease organism is carried to many parts of the body and is likely to localize in joints. It was first thought that only a few types of ticks could transmit this disease, but now it appears that several common species may be involved. The most common type of tick to carry Lyme disease is the Deer Tick. A vaccine is now available for protecting dogs against Lyme disease. This vaccine is initially given twice, at two-week intervals. Annual revaccination is also necessary to maintain immunity. The vaccine has been shown to be safe and very effective.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease of dogs and other mammals that particularly affects the liver or kidneys. Leptospira bacteria are carried mainly by rats and other rodents, but can also affect almost any mammalian species, including people. Infected or recovered “carrier” dogs can also act as a source of the infection. Ingestion of infected urine or rodent-contaminated garbage is the most common means of transmission, but some forms of the bacteria can penetrate damaged or thin skin. For instance, when dogs swim in contaminated water, they may become infected through their skin. The incubation period (from infection to onset of clinical signs) is usually 4-12 days.
Heartworm disease is a serious disease that results in severe lung disease, heart failure, organ damage, and possibly death in dogs, cats, and ferrets. It is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis. The worms are spread through the bite of a mosquito. The dog is the definitive host, meaning that the worms mature into adults, mate, and produce offspring while living inside a dog. The worms are called “heartworms” because the adults live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of an infected animal. We recommend year-round heartworm prevention options which include monthly oral medications or long-acting injectable medication.
