What is distemper?

Distemper shots protect against a group of diseases.  They include infectious canine distemper (ICD) a very contagious virus that attacks the lungs and affects the brain and spinal.  Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) causes a serious case of "kennel cough".  Canine parvovirus (CPV) attacks the intestinal tract, and often attacks very young puppies, causing heart damage.  Parvo, as it is often called, is the most common fatal disease and is also very difficult to protect against.

What is rabies?

Rabies is transferred by animal bite or via saliva of an infected animal.  Rabies is a fatal disease.  This disease can be transferred to humans, making it of particular concern.  Unvaccinated dogs which come into close contact with skunk, squirrels, rabbits, rats, etc are at risk.

What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis causes kidney and liver damage.  This disease can affect any mammal and is contracted from a host of other mammals.  It is spread by urine from infected animals and can be contracted by humans . 

What is lyme disease?

Lyme disease is spread by ticks.  Lyme Disease poses risks to humans and is difficult to diagnose.   It sis treated with antibiotics.  Dogs that are in areas dense with brush can get ticks.  The location, climate, and season also factor in.

What is bordetella?