Whether you’ve recently welcomed a new furry friend into your home or have a long-time canine companion, understanding vaccinations can sometimes be overwhelming. You may wonder if your dog’s immune system is strong enough to fight diseases in its adult years if they were vaccinated as a puppy. Or perhaps you’re unsure if annual vaccines are necessary to prevent severe illnesses. And what if your dog is at an increased risk or has been exposed to infected dogs?
Worry not, because we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll delve into one of the most common vaccines for dogs: DHPP (or DAPP). We’ll explain what it is, how it works, and when your furry friend needs it.
DHPP Versus DAPP Vaccinations
At Katten TrimSalon, we use the DAPP vaccine for dogs, which is another name for the DHPP vaccination. In this vaccine, the A represents “adenovirus,” whereas the H in DHPP stands for “hepatitis.”
What is Distemper?
Distemper is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs, as well as other animals like raccoons and ferrets. It spreads through airborne exposure, such as a cough or sneeze, and can also be transmitted through contaminated surfaces. Unfortunately, distemper is incurable and often fatal, making it crucial to be aware of and understand this disease.
Distemper affects multiple organs, including the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, and central nervous system, making it a serious and potentially life-threatening illness for dogs.
Symptoms of Distemper in Dogs
In the initial stages, distemper may mimic signs of kennel cough, such as a runny nose, fatigue, abdominal pain, hacking cough, and difficulty breathing. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms like seizures and paralysis may occur. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
It’s important to note that even dogs that recover from distemper can experience lifelong effects. However, initial doses of the vaccination for puppies and an annual shot for adult and older dogs can eliminate these symptoms.
Does Your Dog Need the DHPP Vaccine?
The simple answer is yes. An unvaccinated dog is at risk of developing distemper, which can cause significant harm to their overall health. Vaccinations are one of the best tools to protect your furry friend, regardless of their size or age.
The DHPP vaccine is considered one of the core vaccines recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Core vaccines are crucial for your pet’s health, as they protect against severe diseases and are transmissible to humans. Along with the DHPP vaccine, canine parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and rabies vaccines are also considered essential.
Vaccine Schedule for Puppies
Newborn puppies follow a different vaccination schedule than adult dogs. Puppy shots typically begin between six and eight weeks of age, after the puppy is weaned. From there, you’ll need to visit your veterinarian every two to four weeks until your puppy is around fourteen to sixteen weeks old.
Your puppy may receive multiple vaccines or a combination vaccine, so it’s essential to complete the recommended vaccine plan, including getting the DHPP booster about a year after the initial series. Following your veterinarian’s advice ensures that your furry friend receives the necessary protection.
Vaccine Schedule for Adults
If you have a healthy adult dog, an annual visit to the vet for a routine wellness check and core vaccinations is typically sufficient. However, dogs with weakened immune systems or other health needs may require more frequent trips to the vet.
How Does the DHPP Vaccine Work?
The DHPP vaccine contains modified amounts of the viruses it protects against, including the distemper virus, canine adenovirus, canine parvovirus, and canine parainfluenza virus. These modifications ensure that the vaccines do not cause infections in the immune system. In rare cases, they may trigger mild reactions near the injection site or an allergic reaction. At Katten TrimSalon, our experts are equipped to handle any potential side effects to provide the best care for your pet.
Benefits of the DHPP Vaccine
The DHPP vaccine offers a multitude of benefits for your furry friend. It protects against distemper, canine parainfluenza, parvovirus, and hepatitis, preventing symptoms and potential complications associated with these diseases.
To recap, here’s what the DHPP (or DAPP) vaccine helps prevent:
- Distemper: Cold-like symptoms, respiratory issues, seizures, and paralysis.
- Canine parainfluenza: Low-grade fever, coughing, runny nose, low energy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
- Parvovirus: Gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and stomach pain.
- Hepatitis: Liver inflammation, potential effects on other organs.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re eager to learn more about distemper and the vaccine for dogs, we’ve got you covered. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Schedule Your Appointment With Katten TrimSalon
Whether you’re a proud puppy parent or need to schedule your adult dog’s annual vaccination visit, our team at Katten TrimSalon is here to help. Give us a call or click here to set up your appointment and ensure your furry friend stays healthy and protected.