Illnesses to Watch for in Puppies

n order to maintain your new puppy’s health, he should be vaccinated against core illnesses and diseases and should visit the veterinarian regularly for checkups. In addition, you should vigilantly monitor your puppy’s health and behavior at home. Continue reading to learn about the most common puppy illnesses you should watch out for, and visit a veterinarian in San Jose immediately if you notice any of the signs.

Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a very contagious illness that typically affects dogs that are between the ages of 12 weeks and three years. Your puppy should be vaccinated against Parvo at six weeks of age. If your dog has not been vaccinated against Parvovirus, he can be infected via bodily secretions of a dog carrying the disease. The symptoms of parvovirus include fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration. If untreated, the disease can lead to sepsis and death. Treatment provided by an animal hospital or emergency vet includes antibiotics and IV fluids.

Distemper
Distemper is a canine virus with symptoms that mimic those of a cold. Your puppy should be vaccinated against distemper at six weeks and then again at nine weeks. The symptoms of distemper include sneezing, eye discharge, lethargy, depression, and fever. If untreated, distemper can develop into pneumonia and can cause neurological problems. If you suspect that your puppy has distemper, take him to an emergency veterinarian immediately. The recovery process is long and requires inpatient care.

Kennel Cough
A kennel cough is caused by bacterial infection or the parainfluenza virus. It is transmitted through the air, and your puppy can be infected even if he has not spent time in a kennel with other dogs. Your puppy should be vaccinated against a kennel cough at six weeks, and then every six months afterward While the vaccination doesn’t always prevent infection, it will lessen symptoms. Symptoms of a kennel cough include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and a deep cough. If untreated, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia. If your puppy develops a cough, take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible.