Dog and Cat Vaccine Acronyms: DA2PPL, DA2PP, DHPP, FVRCP, FeLV
DA2PPL
This particular vaccination is for the protection of dogs against a variety of infectious agents.
D -- Distemper Virus: Distemper is a highly contagious virus that causes many different symptoms in dogs. The most common symptoms however are related to the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological systems. It is also important to note that raccoons are also susceptible to this virus and may spread it to dogs.
A2 -- Adenovirus (Type 2): May also be noted as the ‘H’ in DHPP. There are many types of this virus but the most common types in dogs are Types 1 and 2. Type 1 adenovirus will cause cough in dogs and Type 2 adenovirus is the cause of Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH).
P -- Parvovirus: Parvovirus is an extremely contagious and serious virus that causes severe diarrhea and death if not treated promptly.
P -- Parainfluenza: One of the viral causes of infectious tracheobronchitis or “kennel cough”.
L -- Leptospirosis: A bacteria that is spread in the urine of skunks and raccoons in particular. Dogs become infected by sniffing the urine and then becoming infected. This bacteria is also found in stagnant, slow-moving water sources. Leptospirosis causes a variety of clinical diseases such as liver and kidney failure, among others.
Bordatella — A very contagious and serious upper respiratory infection in dogs. Also known as “kennel cough”. Primary symptoms of Bordetella include a dry, hacking persistent cough. Watery eyes and a runny nose are also accompanying symptoms. Although a non-core, optional vaccination, almost all boarding facilities will require this vaccination to protect your pet and their facilities and guests. In fact, if your boarding facility does not require this vaccination, we would advise not to have your dog stay at their facility
Lyme Vaccination (Borrelia burgdorferi) -- Given that the current vaccinations available for dogs against Lyme Disease are not as effective as the core vaccinations (DA2PP for example) and there seems to be an increased risk of side effects, we currently recommend tick prevention which would be more effective in preventing the transmission of the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease.
FVRCPP
This particular vaccination is for the protection of cats against a variety of infectious agents. These are airborne pathogens and therefore should be administered to both indoor and outdoor cats.
FVR -- Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis: A component of the Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Syndrome caused by the Feline Herpesvirus. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, conjunctivitis, ocular discharge corneal ulceration, and others. It is highly contagious and recommended for indoor and outdoor cats alike to receive this vaccination.
C -- Calicivirus: Another highly contagious and severe virus causing upper respiratory symptoms such as coughing and sneezing. This virus will also commonly cause ulcers within the oral cavity, especially on the tongue. It is recommended that both indoor and outdoor cats receive protection against this virus.
P -- Panleukopenia: Panleukopenia is caused by the Feline Parvovirus and is also commonly known as Feline Distemper. This particular devastating virus may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and sudden death in cats. It is primarily spread via the fecal-oral route including exposure from contaminated clothes, bedding/toys, and through handling.
P -- Chlamydiosis (Chlamydia psittaci): This particular feline bacterium causes upper respiratory and ocular symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and conjunctivitis. Chlamydia is spread in nasal and ocular secretions and may also contaminate objects such as bedding, toys, hands, etc.
FeLV -- Feline Leukemia Virus: An incurable virus causing cancer in cats such as lymphoma and leukemia. It may also cause anemia and immunodeficiencies resulting in increased susceptibility to other infectious diseases. The prognosis for cats infected with FeLV is poor and the virus is spread in the saliva which may contaminate a variety of different objects. Kingsdale Animal Hospital currently recommends vaccination against the virus for cats that go outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between core and non-core vaccines?
Core vaccinations are what veterinarians deem absolutely essential for the protection of your dog. The diseases core vaccinations prevent are generally more serious and fatal than non-core vaccines.
Does my pet need every vaccine every year?
No, most vaccines can protect for more than one year. It is very important however to properly vaccinate younger dogs to build proper immunity and then later in life, you can start adjusting your vaccine schedule with the advice of your veterinarian.
Do indoor cats need vaccines?
Indoor cats should be protected against air-borne diseases such as FVRCP. Diseases that require direct contact with other cats such as FeLV and Chlamydia may not be necessary.
Does the Bordatella vaccine protect against Kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a disease made up of many different agents, Bordatealla (bacteria) included. It is important to note that the Bordatella vaccine will reduce symptoms and not necessarily prevent infection. The symptoms are often subtle and often veterinary assistance is not required.
How many vaccines and boosters do puppies require?
Puppies should receive their first vaccination between 6-8 weeks of age. Two more boosters at 12 and 16 weeks of age are required to provide optimal immunity.
How common are vaccine reactions?
Vaccine reactions are very uncommon. Potential side effects and reactions include:
1. Mild discomfort at the injection site and/or lethargy
2. Swollen face and itchiness
3. Vomiting and/or diarrhea
4. Anaphylaxis, however, is very rare
It is important for pet owners to be aware of the various diseases and viruses that their pets may be susceptible to, and take the necessary precautions in order to protect them. This includes ensuring that your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, as well as using flea and tick prevention products if they spend time outdoors. At Kingsdale Animal Hospital we believe that prevention is the best medicine and are here to help you protect your beloved pet!