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DHPP Shots for Puppies

When it comes to your pup’s health, you don’t want to play around. At a veterinarian’s office, you hear a ton of medical jargon that might as well be in another language—bordetella, distemper and parvovirus, just to name a few. Between all the terminology and the introduction of a new puppy to your family, it can be overwhelming figuring out what’s best for your pup. That’s why our vets are here to help. Let’s take a look at DHPP shots for puppies and why your puppy should get it. 

Why Your Puppy Should Be Vaccinated

Just like humans, vaccines for dogs are a great tool to use in the fight against various diseases and illnesses. Without them, your pup would not have the ability to resist diseases well. If you want your dog to live a long, healthy life, vaccines should be at the top of your list when they’re young. 

Technically, vaccines fall under the category of preventative health. Luckily, at Care First Animal Hospital, we have preventative health programs for puppies and dogs. The program includes: 

  • Unlimited examinations during regular doctors’ hours
  • All recommended vaccines and boosters
  • Four intestinal parasite examinations
  • Two doses of dewormer
  • Juvenile wellness bloodwork
  • $100 off client’s choice of spay, neuter or dental

What Is The DHPP Vaccine?

The DHPP vaccine is a 5-in-1 vaccine that protects against five different dog diseases. Let’s take a look at the diseases this shot prevents in your pup. 

Diseases The DHPP Vaccine Prevents

Canine Distemper Virus

Canine distemper virus spreads through air, physical contact or shared facilities, such as a kennel or water bowl. Distemper attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system of a dog. The illness is not only found in dogs but also animals like wolves, racoons, skunks, lions, tigers and more. 

The symptoms vary from dog to dog, but in general, most dogs with distemper experience: 

  • Discharge from the eyes
  • Fever
  • Cough 
  • Vomiting
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargy 

Canine Adenovirus Type 1 & 2

Adenovirus, also known as infectious hepatitis, is a viral infection that attacks the liver. There are two types of canine adenovirus: type 1 and type 2. Adenovirus is a cause of canine cough. The virus spreads through the air from sneezing or coughing. It is also spread by coming in contact with feces or urine of an infected dog. 

Symptoms of of adenovirus include but are not limited to: 

  • Depression
  • Fever
  • Cloudiness of the eyes
  • Cough similar to kennel cough

Canine Parainfluenza 

Canine parainfluenza virus is an extremely contagious respiratory virus. In the past, parainfluenza only affected horses, but over time, adapted to infect dogs. 

This highly contagious infection is found across the world in places like boarding facilities, shelters, and pet stores. The main method of transmission is through respiratory droplets. Once infected, the virus can become fatal.

The symptoms of this virus include: 

  • Cough
  • Low fever
  • Nasal discharge
  • Lack of energy
  • No appetite

Canine Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a very contagious virus that all dogs are susceptible to, but young puppies are at the highest risk of infection. The infection attacks the gastrointestinal tract and is spread through contaminated surfaces, feces or people. 

Symptoms of parvovirus include: 

  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Bloating
  • Fever
  • Hypothermia
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Consult Your Veterinarian

DHPP shots for puppies set them up for a happy, healthy life. By preventing these highly contagious, fatal diseases, your puppy can focus on being a puppy! At Care First Animal Hospital, our veterinarians provide the highest-quality pet care in the Raleigh area. Set up an appointment with our veterinarians here and get your puppy on an effective vaccine schedule. 

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