Diseases

Canine Distemper: Highly contagious and often fatal. It is spread through contact with another infected animal, feces, or urine. The only effective control is vaccination.

Canine Hepatitis: A viral disease spread through contact with infected animals, their feces or urine. Prevent this by getting a vaccination.

Leptospirosis: Extremely contagious through contact with infected animals, urine and feces. Infection can go undetected, therefore there may be no symptoms. This can also be spread to humans. A vaccination early will prevent this.

Parvovirus: This is an all too common killer of puppies. It is spread much the same as the others. A series of vaccinations given over a few weeks (with an annual booster) will aid in preventing this killer. If your dog will spend alot of time with other dogs (staying in kennels, traveling to dog shows) your vet may suggest a booster every 6 months. Talk to your vet about this.

Parainfluenza: Highly infectious viral disease...also known as 'kennel cough'. It spreads quickly. See that you get the vaccination for this...as well as the annual booster.

Rabies: Rabies is ALWAYS fatal! It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Most states require that you vaccinate against this....check with your vet.

Coronavirus: Highly contagious. Get the vaccination against this...as well as the annual booster.

Bordatella: Bacterial infection. A dog may catch this disease through contact with other dogs. Ask your vet about the vaccination.

Lyme Disease: A tick-borne disease. A vaccine may be reccommended depending on your location. Ask your vet.

Parasites

You must check your pet often for both the internal and external parasites. Some parasites will make your puppy miserable...not to mention that some can kill. It is important that you check your puppy often!

Internal Parasites:

Roundworm - Hookworm - Whipworm - Tapeworm

Most of these attack the digestive system. There are treatments that your vet can give to rid your puppy of these nasty critters. All of these can lead to serious health problems...and even result in death. Talk to your vet about prevention and deworming.

Coccidia: To avoid these....make sure your puppy doesn't eat raw or undercooked meat.

Heartworm: This parasite is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. It lives in the vessels of the heart and may be fatal. It is difficult to cure, but east to prevent. Your vet will do a simple blood test to be sure that heartworm is not already present before giving heartworm medicine. The medicine is given monthly during the mosquito season.

External Parasites

Fleas: A puppy with fleas will scratch and bite frequently. Some puppies are allergic to fleas and it can cause skin problems. Fleas can also cause tapeworms. The flea will spend half it's life on your puppy. It is important that when you are treating for fleas, you also treat the environment. Keep your puppy's bedding washed in hot soap and water. It may be necessary to spray the yard with a good pesticide. Check with your vet for good, puppy-safe products.

Ticks: Bites from ticks can cause Rocky Mountain Fever, Lyme Disease and more. Wooded areas in the Spring and Summer are where your dog may pick them up. If you find a tick...remove it carefully and promptly. Using tweezers, grab the tick by it's head and pull it straight out. Make sure the head is removed. Dab the spot with alcohol to prevent infection. Contact your vet for further treatment.

Lice: Most flea sprays and powders will prevent lice.

Mange Mites: These are not visible to the human eye. They live near the hair follicle. These little guys spread quickly and are difficult to cure. They can also spread to humans. They must be treated by your vet.

Ear Mites: Your puppy will scratch or shake it's head. Look in your puppy's ear for what looks like dark earwax or coffee grounds. If your puppy has ear mites, you will need to see your vet for treatment.

Ringworm: This is highly contagious and can be spread to humans. This is a fungus and looks like oval, bare patches on the skin. To prevent ringworm, limit your puppy's contact with other dogs. see your vet for treatment.

As with any questions concerning your puppy....consult your vet! Your vet is your best friend...and a good vet will encourage you to ask questions and take the time to help you.