The “canine distemper” vaccine is actually a combination vaccine that protects against multiple diseases.
Have you ever wondered what certain alphabet letters stated in your dog’s distemper vaccine signify? Besides protecting against canine distemper virus, this vaccine also protects against other diseases you might not know your pet is prone to. They include adenovirus, parvovirus, and others. Let’s learn more about the canine distemper vaccine.
DAPP “Canine Distemper” Vaccine
The “canine distemper” vaccine is actually a combination vaccine that protects against multiple diseases. The vaccine protects against are canine distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. They are frequently written as “DHPP, DA2PP, DHPPV, or DA2PPV” on a pet’s health records.
What is Included in the Following Vaccines?
Canine Distemper Virus
It includes the alphabet letter “D.” The canine distemper virus is a severe and highly contagious virus with a death rate of 50% in untreated dogs. The virus attacks the digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. This disease can be transmitted between canines through direct contact or contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, or feces.
Adenovirus
This part of the vaccine used to be the “H” for hepatitis, but has now transitioned to “A” for adenovirus. Canine adenovirus type 2 can cause mild upper respiratory symptoms such as coughing. Type 1 adenovirus, however, can lead to infectious canine hepatitis (hence the original “H”). This is often fatal and can be easily spread. Pets can contract the adenovirus by coming into contact with the urine or discharge from the eyes and nose of an infected dog.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus (P) infection is highly contagious, with a death rate of almost 90% in untreated dogs. The virus attacks unvaccinated animals’ digestive and immune systems, causing vomiting and diarrhea. It is easily spread through either direct contact with the infected animal or material they have been in contact with such as blankets or food bowls.
Parainfluenza
The parainfluenza (P) virus causes a mild respiratory disease in canines. This is spread through aerosolized particles from an infected dog coughing or sneezing.
Why All Dogs Should be Vaccinated
Vaccines, including the canine distemper vaccine, help teach your pet’s immune system how to recognize and combat specific disease-causing agents. They also work by stimulating the immune system’s antibody production, which identifies and destroys these agents before they can cause a disease. This will help prevent or minimize the severity of potential diseases. Core vaccines like the distemper vaccine are recommended for all canines, regardless of lifestyle.
HERE AT MOUNT CARMEL ANIMAL HOSPITAL, WE’LL TREAT YOUR PETS LIKE FAMILY!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook