Canine Distemper
This infectious disease can case variable symptoms including fever, coughing, discharge from the eyes and nose, vomiting and diarrhoea and eventually cracked pads and noses. Some dogs may suffer from neurological symptoms such as seizures. Moreover, distemper is over fatal.
Infectious Canine Hepatitis
This disease attacks the liver, kidneys and lungs. Signs often include coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea and pale gums. The disease is rapid and can cause death within 24-36 hours. Some dogs can recover and then shed the virus for many months, posing a threat to other dogs. Thanks to vaccination, this disease like distemper is relatively rare.
Canine Parvovirus
This virus is highly contagious and very persistent in the environment. Dogs of all ages can becme infected but puppies are particularly susceptible. This disease often causes vomiting and diarrhoea which is generally bloody. Infected dogs are also lethargic and refuse to eat or drink. Outbreaks still regularly occur. Canine parvovirus is most often fatal.
Leptspirosis
This is a condition which can be passed on from animals to humans. It is caused by a bacteria which can be picked up from watercourses and urine and other infected animals. It targets the internal organs, in particular the liver and kidneys. Signs vary from flu-like symptoms to severe abdominal pain.
Kennel Cough
This is a highly contagious disease of the dog’s respiratory tract. Dogs of all ages can be affected and signs include a dry, harsh convulsive cough, very much like whooping cough in humans. The disease can be caused by a number of bacterial and viral agents The coughing can last for several weeks and during this time more serious complications such as pneumonia may arise. In puppies or older dogs, especially if there are any other health problems, this disease can be much worse. It is Ireland’s most widespread infectious disease in dogs. It is passed from dog to dog via airborne droplets – a case of ‘coughs and sneezes spread diseases’ – and by nose to nose contact. Every dog is at risk, however healthy. Which this disease is known as kennel cough, your pet is equally likely to encounter the disease whenever or wherever dogs can gather. This can include places lke parks, grooming parlours, housing estates, beaches all in addition to boarding kennels, shows, training classes and even in vets’ waiting rooms.
Rabies
Although NI and the UK are rabies-free, dogs travelling abroad are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. If you are considering this, please ensure your pet is vaccinated as required.