Immunisation
During the first one to three days of its nursing period, a puppy receives antibodies in its mother's milk called colostrum. By weaning, at six to eight weeks of age, this natural immunity will begin to disappear. Consequently at eight to 20 weeks of age, a puppy is susceptible to a number of diseases. At this time, the puppy's immune system should be stimulated to provide its own antibodies. This is why vaccination programs are initiated shortly after weaning. A vaccination program for your puppy should be worked out by your veterinarian.
Vaccinations to help safeguard your puppy's health are available for the following common and serious diseases:
Rabies is a disease of the central nervous system, usually transmitted
through the bite of a rabid animal.
Parvovirus and Coronavirus can affect dogs of all ages, but they are particularly devastating to puppies. Immediate treatment for these diseases by a veterinarian is essential. Parvovirus is a common and deadly viral infection. Fever, vomiting, depression, severe diarrhea
and dehydration can ac-company the infection. In some instances, death can occur
rapidly, at times, in a matter of hours.
Coronavirus is a highly contagious viral infection of the gastro-intestinal tract. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever and dehydration.
Transmission of these viruses occurs from dog to dog via contact with infected feces, or it can also be carried by shoes, clothing, carrying crates, food, water bowls and other objects.
Canine distemper is a virus that affects the central nervous system. Early
warning signs may include fever, lack of appetite, mild drainage from the eyes,
lethargy or depression. These early signs may be followed by severe discharge
from the eyes and nose, severe diarrhea, pneumonia or convulsions. The distemper
virus can be carried from one dog to another or transmitted through contact from
a contaminated environment. Generally distemper virus spreads as an airborne
infection. Consequently, vaccination is the only effective control.
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