Immunisation (continued..)
Hepatitis is a virus that affects the liver. It is most severe with puppies, but dogs of all ages are susceptible. Early signs of hepatitis are similar to those of distemper: fever, loss of appetite, depression, vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include a discharge from the eyes or nose, uncontrolled bleeding, skin bruises or pain when the abdomen is pressed. A vaccination program planned by your veterinarian will control the disease.
Canine cough, popularly referred to as ?kennel cough,? primarily affects dogs living in close proximity, such as in a kennel or shelter. It is highly contagious, attacks the respiratory system, and causes mild or no fever, nasal discharge and a dry, hacking cough. In severe form, kennel cough can cause a loss of appetite, lethargy and a moist and persistent cough, together with nose and eye discharges. Complications such as pneumonia may also occur. Veterinary treatment is required.
Numerous organisms have been implicated as causes. It is possible for your veterinarian to vaccinate for three of the common components of this cough. The three vaccines are parainfluenza, canine bordetella, and adenovirus-2.
Leptospirosis is an acute infectious disease that spreads through contact with the saliva, urine or nasal secretions of infected animals. The early symptoms include fever, muscle pain, dehy-dration, shock, loss of appetite and vomiting. Within a day or two of the onset of the first symptoms, the temperature will drop sharply, breathing will be labored and stiffness, particularly in the hind legs, may be observed. For control, a vaccination program must be followed.
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