Helping you keep your family safe too. Vaccinating your pet is by far the easiest way to help prevent spreading these terrible diseases. Puppies need to be vaccinated before taking them out into public.
Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)
Caught by contact with infected dog faeces. This virus can survive in the ground and environment for up to 9 months. Without treatment roughly 80% of dogs will die.
SymptomsMainly affects young dogs between the ages of 6 weeks and 6 months old, but can also affect older dogs which have not been vaccinated or had regular boosters. Young puppies affected can suffer from heart problems and die. Other symptoms common with Parvo are severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea. Affected dogs often become dehydrated and develop weakened immune systems.
TreatmentThere is no specific treatment, but the dog may be put on a drip for dehydration; with antibiotics to prevent other infections taking hold, and given medication to prevent vomiting.
Canine Hepatitis
Spread by contact with saliva, urine, faeces, blood or nasal discharge of infected dogs. The urine can remain infectious for up to 1 year and can remain in the environment for many months.
SymptomsType 1 causes a kennel cough type infection. Type 2 causes an infection of the liver (hepatitis).
TreatmentThere is no specific treatment for this disease but the symptoms themselves are treated. Death can occur but most dogs will survive with the correct medical treatment performed by a veterinarian.
Para Influenza
This is a highly contagious respiratory virus also known as “Canine or Kennel Cough”. It is spread through the air and can spread quickly for up to 2 weeks after the infection and is most common in places where many dogs are kept together, eg. boarding kennels and dog breeding facilities.
SymptomsA persistent coughing (can be wet or dry cough), fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, not eating and depression.
TreatmentMild cases may be treated with cough suppressants, but the dogs should be isolated as they are highly infectious to other dogs for up to 2 weeks after. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia and become life threatening. Seek veterinary advice immediately.
Leptospirosis
Lepto is a disease caused by bacteria. The source of the disease is mainly by infected urine, or by contaminated water, so dogs at risk are those that swim or drink from stagnant water or ponds — especially in areas with a high rat population.
SymptomsFever, lack of energy, increased thirst, vomiting, bloody diarrhea and jaundice (yellowing of the membranes, eg. eyes, gums). Severe infection can lead to kidney and/or liver failure and death.
TreatmentThis involves antibiotics, being put on a drip with fluids, and supportive care. Dogs with a mild infection can recover but will carry the bacteria for months afterwards. Their infected urine is a risk to other dogs and humans.
Canine Distemper
Most commonly spread by direct contact with an infected animal and by coming into contact with bloody secretions, eg. saliva, vomit, etc.
SymptomsDogs of all ages can be infected. There are a variety of symptoms from fever, depression, coughing, vomiting and diarrhea. There is often a discharge from the eyes and mouth. Dogs mildly affected can recover but many will go on to have long term neurological damage. This will include nervous twitching, walking in circles and possible seizures, as well as eye problems and hardening of the nose skin and pads on their feet. Dogs with severe symptoms often die.
TreatmentThere are no specific treatments. Often they are put onto a drip giving fluids to prevent dehydration, and medication to control seizures.
Parasites
At some stage all dogs will suffer from parasites. They may be worms, ticks, fleas, lice or mange mites.
SymptomsIf you see the signs it is best to contact your local SPCA or a veterinarian for advice as soon as possible. This is kinder for your dog and better for you and your family.
TreatmentRegular dipping of your dog will help prevent your dog from getting some of these parasites and their diseases, along with regular de-worming. Puppies under the age of 6 months cannot be dipped, so only puppy shampoos and powders may be used.