Summary of Canine Vaccines


Rabies

An incurable and nearly always fatal disease of mammals. Rabies is transmitted through saliva of infected bats or mammals and targets the central nervous system. It is most commonly spread through bites, but can be spread if infected saliva contacts a wound or mucous membrane of the eyes, nose or mouth. Because it is spread from animals to people, it is required by the State of Oregon that all dogs be vaccinated. Crooked Tails Veterinary Clinic requires all canine patients to be up to date on rabies vaccination.

DAPP/DHPP - Distemper/Adenovirus/Parainfluenza/Parvovirus
  • Distemper virus is related to the human measles virus and is spread in the respiratory droplets of infected animals. It targets the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and the nervous system.
  • Canine Adenovirus/Infectious Canine Hepatitis is transmitted through bodily secretions and causes respiratory symptoms followed by liver disease.
  • Canine Parvovirus is extremely contagious and spread in the feces of infected dogs. It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity and drying and can survive in the environment for several years. It is readily transmitted on shoes, fur, contaminated clothing and other objects. It causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, often leading to death in untreated animals. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are extremely susceptible.
  • Parainfluenza is a respiratory virus transmitted in respiratory secretions. It is one of the causes of kennel cough.
Leptospirosis

This bacterial infection affects the kidneys and liver. It is transmitted through the urine - rodents, raccoons, opossums, deer, and some livestock are major carriers. These bacteria are found worldwide in soil and water. It is currently recommended by the state veterinarian that all dogs in Oregon be vaccinated for leptospirosis. This disease is transmittable to people, causing flu-like symptoms and can cause kidney and liver damage.

Bordetella

This bacteria is a common cause of kennel cough. It is highly contagious and spread through respiratory secretions. It causes inflammation of the trachea and larger airways and a severe cough. In young or immune-compromised animals, it can lead to pneumonia.

Canine Influenza

A highly contagious virus spread through direct contact from infected dogs and contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food bowls, leashes, shoes, clothing, etc). It causes respiratory illness. Oregon saw its first cases of Canine Influenza in July 2019 when a rescue organization in Portland imported 10 dogs from China. At-risk dogs include, but are not limited to, those that visit dog parks, dog daycare, dog shows, grooming, boarding, travel (car, air, etc.), and rescue animals. Dogs with pre-existing heart disease or lung disease, senior dogs, and brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds are also at significant risk.

Rattlesnake

When injected into an unprotected dog, the toxins in snake venom are very painful and can have serious consequences. Even if your dog survives the immediate effects of a rattlesnake bite, he can be permanently injured by the venom. The Rattlesnake Vaccine is intended to help create an immunity that will protect your dog against rattlesnake venom. Dogs that spend time in rattlesnake habitat are considered at risk.