Last month I discussed the topic of vaccine rotation. This month, I thought I would cover what exactly all those letters in your dog’s shot records stand for! This will be a very brief overview of most of the vaccines available for dogs.

Distemper: This is a viral disease. It can cause neurologic, respiratory, or intestinal disease. It is very devastating, difficult to treat, and can be fatal. It is spread from dog to dog by inhalation.

Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Caused by a virus called Canine Adenovirus Type 1. Infection is contracted through the oronasal route (mouth or nose). Some pets show no signs, others have non-specific signs of intestinal disease and even corneal edema (or swelling of the outer layers of the eye that is also called “Blue Eye”). We vaccinate for this disease with Adenovirus Type 2 because giving a vaccine with the Type 1 virus can actually cause the “Blue Eye”!

Leptospirosis: This disease is caused by a special kind of bacteria called spirochetes. There are four strains of the bacteria that can cause infection. Dogs can get this disease from direct contact with an infected animal (especially from that animal’s urine), soil, or infected water. Rodents and cattle are the usual carriers of the disease. Humans can also contract this disease! It can cause kidney failure in both humans and dogs.

Parvo: This is also caused by a virus. Please see the article from February 2005 for extensive information on this disease.

Parainfluenza: A viral disease related to Distemper virus. It usually causes mild respiratory disease but can also cause neurologic disease. Spread just like the Distmeper virus.

**The above diseases are usually grouped into the DHLPP or DA2PPL vaccine.

Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Bacterial disease that causes a dry, hacking cough. There are many different strains of this, so the vaccine is not always protective. Most boarding facilities require this vaccine because disease is so easily spread from dog to dog.

Lyme Disease: Caused by a bacteria that is transmitted by the Deer Tick. Ticks must feed for at least 12-24 hours to transmit the disease. Symptoms include lameness, painful joints, lethargy, and fever. Dogs generally do not get the “bullseye” lesion like people do. Contrary to popular belief, this disease is not just a problem in the Northeast. My sister’s dog was infected here in Georgia and I had to euthanize her pet due to failure to respond to treatment. Humans can also contract this disease from the ticks.

Rabies: Viral disease that is transmitted in the saliva (bite wounds) from infected animals. Causes severe neurologic disease and ultimately death. Can be transmitted to humans! Most commonly transmitted by bats, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, cats, and dogs. This list is obviously not comprehensive. Please contact your veterinarian with any questions about what your pet is most at risk for. Then, you can make a vaccine protocol that is perfect for your pet’s lifestyle!

Dr. Lindsey H. McCraney