Is Your Dog Overdue for his Vaccinations?

Many people today are looking for ways to save money, and wisely so. With the recent downturn in the economy the past few years, saving money has become a priority and trying to decide what you can do without and where you can cut back are important decisions.

When it comes to our pets, some owners have decided to forgo their pet’s annual checkup and vaccinations. If your pet seems otherwise healthy, this may seem like a good money saving decision.  It may however end up costing you a great deal more in the long run, or even end up costing your pet its life.

A recent outbreak of distemper at a humane society in Clark County led to the shelter closing for a week and sadly, at least 20 dogs had to be euthanized. The disease is extremely contagious, with symptoms including: discharge from the eyes and nose, coughing, congestion of the lungs, and diarrhea and vomiting. As many as one half of infected dogs will die, with puppies being more susceptible. The virus can be airborne, or passed by direct contact with contaminated stool, urine or other secretions from infected dogs.

Distemper, however, is easily preventable. Vaccination for distemper is included in the first vaccinations that a puppy receives, usually starting at 6 weeks, and is then part of an adult dog’s routine vaccinations. If your dog is overdue for her vaccinations, you should get her caught up as soon as possible. Everyone wants to save money where they can, but saving your pet from suffering and yourself from heartbreak is even more important in the long run.