Cherry Hill Animal Clinic
Annual Adult Canine Health Care
1. DHLPP or DHPP Vaccine-Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvo





DISTEMPER: Thirty years ago distemper virus was the biggest dog killer in the US.
Our vaccines effectively prevent the disease today. The disease starts with signs of
coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lack of appetite and discharge from the eyes and
nose. The virus can then enter the nervous system and cause seizures, twitches, or
partial paralysis. It is spread via all body secretions and is highly contagious. It has a
high rate of mortality.
HEPATITIS: This is a virus that affects the liver. It is spread through the dog’s urine.
Exposure can cause mild infection or can be severe enough to cause death.
LEPTOSPIROSIS: This is a bacterial infection that affects the dog’s kidneys. It can
reside as a low level infection for months or years. Infection with this bacterium can
also cause liver damage. Death can occur if not treated promptly. The doctor will
determine if your dog needs to have this vaccination based on risk factors.
PARAINFLUENZA: A virus that causes an upper respiratory infection commonly
known as “kennel cough” or tracheobronchitis. The major symptom is a dry hacking
cough. It often lasts several weeks, and is highly contagious between dogs. The
incubation period is 3-8 days from the time of exposure. Also see the section on
Bordetella below.
PARVO: This virus first appeared worldwide in 1978. It is transmitted through direct
contact with an infected dog’s feces. Environments can remain infective for 3-6
months. Signs include lack of appetite, fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and
depression. The death rate is very high. Most dogs, unless properly vaccinated with a
series of vaccines, are at highest risk from 4 weeks to 24 weeks of age. Dogs remain
susceptible to parvo virus infection for at least 3 weeks after the final vaccine in the
series, depending on their individual immune response. This is the most fatal and
serious disease we see in younger dogs.
2. RABIES
Rabies is a fatal infection of the nervous system that can attack all warm-blooded animals,
including humans. Many states require vaccination against rabies, and our practice
requires your pet be vaccinated in order for us to work with your pet. Rabies can be
transmitted through a bite or a scratch from a rabid animal via it’s saliva. There is no cure.
Vaccination is your pet’s only protection.
3. BORDETELLA (“Kennel Cough”)
This is an upper respiratory infection that is highly contagious. It is usually spread in a group
dog environment. The major clinical sign is a persistent, dry hacking cough. It often lasts for
several weeks. This complex can be caused by several viruses and bacteria with bordetella
being the primary bacterial cause. The bordetella vaccine can be given via the intra-nasal
route or by injection, and should be given at least 5 days prior to potential exposure. Even
when vaccinated, some dogs still get a mild form of the disease!
4. Lyme Disease
This is caused by a bacterium, and clinical signs include joint inflammation, fever, and
lethargy. It can also cause several blood cell abnormalities. Lyme disease is transmitted by
several species of ticks. A vaccine is available, but it is only recommended for dogs in high
risk situations.
5. INTESTINAL PARASITE EXAM
An annual stool sample should be checked on all pets. Intestinal parasites can easily be
transmitted through dog feces in contaminated environments. There are several types of
intestinal parasites, some of which cannot be seen with the naked eye. We detect the
presence of parasitic eggs under the microscope (except tapeworms). Approximately 1
tablespoon of fresh (within 8-12 hours) feces is needed for the microscope test.
6. HEARTWORM DISEASE
Heartworm disease is spread via the mosquito from dog to dog. It takes 5-6 months before the disease
can be detected through a blood test. Monthly prevention is very effective at protecting against the
disease when given year round. This is one of the more common diseases in Michigan IF dogs are not
on prevention. This disease can also infect cats. Even dogs that are “indoors” can still get heartworms
as mosquitoes can come in the house. We recommend annual prevention for all dogs in Michigan.
7. FLEA PREVENTION/CONTROL:
Flea shampoos, dips and collars are obsolete since the introduction of monthly topical treatments. We
now have a very safe, effective, once monthly topical flea control called Frontline. Some of our monthly
heartworm preventatives also have flea prevention capabilities. Please ask our staff if you have
questions concerning flea control. Be aware that certain over the counter flea products can be
ineffective and harmful to your pet!