Vaccinations

Vaccines prime the body's own immune system to fight infection by stimulating it to produce antibodies which destroy the virus or bacteria and prevent disease. The protection provided by a vaccine gradually declines after vaccination so we recommend regular boosters and health checks. The age and frequency of vaccination varies depending on the individual, taking into account its maternal immunity, age, breed, previous health problems and likely exposure to disease.

Dogs

We recommend vaccinations to prevent the following diseases in dogs.

CANINE PARVOVIRUS
this is a common, highly contagious gastroenteritis which can often be fatal, especially in young dogs. It is easily spread in the environment from the stools of infected dogs and causes severe dehydration often leading to death. 

CANINE DISTEMPER
this severe, usually fatal disease is becoming less common due to years of vaccination but it is still recommended to maintain immunity and prevent outbreaks in unvaccinated dogs.

CANINE HEPATITIS
a potentially fatal disease affecting many body systems causing fever, liver disease, gastrointestinal and nervous signs.

CANINE RESPIRATORY DISEASE (Kennel Cough)
caused by a number of airborne viruses and bacteria and easily transferred between dogs without direct contact. 

LEPTOSPIROSIS
Can affect all ages of dogs and targets liver and kidneys. It is often fatal and can infect other dogs (and humans) via the urine.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periovac is a new vaccine to help in the fight against periodontal disease which affects a high percentage of dogs especially small breeds.

Cats

FELINE RESPIRATORY DISEASE
also known as "cat flu" or "snuffles". This very common respiratory disease is easily passed from cat to cat in the air due to sneezing or coughing and can be fatal in young cats. Other cats may develop permanent damage to the respiratory system including eyes and nose. Many cats are carriers and act as reservoirs of infection for unvaccinated cats.

FELINE PANLEUCOPENIA
causes severe enteritis affecting all ages of cats and may be fatal, especially in kittens.

FELINE LEUKAEMIA (FeLV)
this virus suppresses the cat's immune system leaving it susceptible to other infections and may predispose to cancer. It has a low incidence in New Zealand overall but some areas have pockets of infection and vaccination may be recommended. 

FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (FIV)
Also known as Feline AIDS and is very common in feral cat populations. It is transferred mainly by bites from infected cats. The vaccine has recently been developed and may be useful in New Zealand.