Vaccines

Rabies

Rabies is a life-threatening virus that causes behavioral changes and affects the nervous system. It is transmissible to all mammals, including humans. The rabies vaccine is required by law in North Carolina.

Distemper‑Parvo (DHPP)

The DHPP vaccine protects against:

• Canine Distemper Virus
• Parvovirus
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)

Canine Distemper

A severe, often fatal virus. It typically begins with upper respiratory symptoms, which can progress to vomiting, diarrhea, callusing of the nose and footpads, seizures, and lifelong neurological issues. It spreads through bodily fluids, including urine.

Parvovirus

A highly contagious, life-threatening virus that is considered ubiquitous—present in most areas not regularly disinfected. It is spread through bodily fluids such as feces, vomit, and saliva. Once inside the body, the virus targets the lymph nodes and then moves to the bone marrow and intestines within 2–7 days. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and a low white blood cell count. All unvaccinated dogs are at risk.

Adenovirus (Hepatitis)

Affects the liver and kidneys. It is spread through bodily fluids and can also infect wildlife.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection commonly found in wildlife such as squirrels, opossums, and raccoons. It is spread through the urine of infected animals and can survive in moist environments, including puddles, ponds, and lakes. Leptospirosis is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. If left untreated, it can lead to kidney and liver failure and may be life-threatening.

Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

Bordetella, often in combination with Parainfluenza, causes "kennel cough." Symptoms include a deep, honking cough, throat irritation, and occasional nasal discharge. This illness is airborne and spreads similarly to the human cold.

The Bordetella vaccine is recommended for dogs who:

• Visit grooming facilities
• Stay at boarding or daycare centers
• Go to dog parks
• Are walked in areas where they encounter other dogs

Most veterinary and boarding facilities require this vaccine.

Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus. Symptoms include coughing, fever, lethargy, and sometimes nasal discharge. The vaccine is recommended for dogs who socialize with other dogs or frequent grooming, boarding, or daycare environments.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by infected deer ticks. It can cause joint pain, intermittent fever, and kidney disease. If untreated, it can lead to total kidney failure. The Lyme vaccine is recommended for dogs who hike or travel to areas north of North Carolina, where ticks are more prevalent.

Rabies

Rabies is a fatal virus that affects the nervous system and causes behavioral changes. It is transmissible to all mammals, including humans, and is required by law in North Carolina.

FVRCP (Feline Distemper Vaccine)

This vaccine protects against:

• Panleukopenia
• Calicivirus
• Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus)

Panleukopenia

Panleukopenia, caused by a parvovirus, is a life-threatening illness that is commonly found in environments that are not routinely disinfected. It is spread through bodily fluids such as feces, vomit, and saliva. The virus infects the lymph nodes and then spreads to the bone marrow and intestines within 2–7 days. Symptoms include fever, appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and low white blood cell count. Unvaccinated cats are especially at risk.

Calicivirus

Causes upper respiratory infections with symptoms like sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, and coughing. Cats in crowded households or shelters are at higher risk.

Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus)

Causes upper respiratory infections and is spread through close contact, especially via wet sneezes from infected or carrier cats.

Lifestyle Vaccine

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

Recommended for:

• All kittens
• Cats that spend any amount of time outdoors
• Cats exposed to unfamiliar or outdoor cats

Feline Leukemia is a viral infection transmitted through saliva or blood. It attacks the immune system and can spread to the bone marrow, leading to immunosuppression and a reduced life expectancy. The vaccine is recommended for all kittens and adult cats that go outdoors or may encounter other cats.