Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

98 •DOG OWNER’S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK
The killed bacterin version is now out of favor and the subunit vaccine,
featuring the OpsA antigen, is recommended if the vaccine is needed. The
immunity from this vaccine can be distinguished from a natural exposure.
Tick control should be the first line of defense against Lyme disease.
CORONAVIRUS (NOT RECOMMENDED)
Vaccination against coronavirus does not prevent the disease, but may reduce
the severity of the illness. This is a mild disease and is rarely fatal. Accordingly,
many veterinarians do not routinely vaccinate against coronavirus.
However, the vaccine may be incorporated into the other vaccines your
dog is receiving. This vaccine is not currently recommended, so ask your veterinarian
about what is in any combination shots your dog may be receiving.
GIARDIA (NOT RECOMMENDED)
There is now a vaccine available for giardiasis, but this is rarely recommended
because the disease is usually mild and responds well to treatment.
PORPHYROMONAS (NOT RECOMMENDED)
Porphyromonas is the most common bacteria involved in periodontitis in dogs
(see page 245). A new vaccine purports to protect against with three species
of this bacteria: denticanis, gulae, and salivosa. The vaccine is very new, and
widespread efficacy tests are now being conducted.
Vaccination Recommendations
The vaccination recommendations on pages 99–100 should be modified under
the following circumstances:
• Give bitches a DHPP booster two to four weeks before breeding. (Be
aware that some veterinarians believe this booster is unnecessary.)
• Some rabies boosters are required at one-year intervals, others at three
years. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer and of your veterinarian.
Local statutes often determine when the booster shots should be given.
• Parainfluenza and leptospirosis vaccinations may be necessary twice a
year in endemic areas.
• Bordetella may be necessary for show dogs, kennel dogs, dogs who are
boarded, and others at high risk for exposure to the kennel cough complex.
Boosters may be indicated twice a year in endemic areas.