Arizona Veterinarians Advise: Urgent Need to Vaccinate Dogs!

• Parvo, distemper, and rabies have been found in puppies in Arizona counties
• Vaccinating your pets against these diseases is the best way to fight the illnesses
• Dogs, especially puppies, can die from these illnesses

My best friend Elizabeth works at a local veterinary office. While we had lunch earlier this week, she leveled her gaze at me and said, "I've had three puppies come into the clinic with parvo this week and another one that may have had distemper. Please spread the word that dogs, especially puppies, need to be vaccinated now."

When Elizabeth gets serious, the situation is likely worse than she's letting on. She never exaggerates, especially when she's talking about animals; the reality is dire enough.

Veterinarians: Puppies Must Be Vaccinated in Arizona

As the weather changes in Arizona, our pets may be spending more time outdoors. If you're a pet owner, it's time to schedule their annual vaccinations.

If you've adopted a puppy, you'll have to be extra vigilant. Vaccinations are usually given in a series, and a puppy won't be fully immune to these canine viruses until they're fully vaccinated.

READ: Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe in Arizona's Summer Heat

Parvo, Distemper and Rabies in Arizona

According to Elizabeth, puppies - and dogs who aren't up-to-date on their vaccinations - are at the greatest risk of contracting these viruses. The risk is especially high if they're around other dogs, visit the dog park, or go anywhere in public where dogs may have been.

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Parvo Infections in Arizona

Canine Parvovirus (CPV), is a highly contagious viral illness. Parvo infections are currently on the rise in Arizona. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, parvo is a virulent disease. Symptoms range from severe vomiting to bloody diarrhea and can lead to dehydration or worse if left untreated. The best defense is vaccination.

READ: Pet Safety: Is It Legal in Arizona to Drive with a Dog on Your Lap?

Rabies Infections in Arizona

Rabies is also on the rise. It is often spread from wild animals like skunks and coyotes to domestic dogs.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It’s primarily spread through bites from infected animals and can be passed to humans. In Arizona, state law requires all dogs over three months old be vaccinated against rabies.

Distemper Infections in Arizona

Canine Distemper, Elizabeth told me, is also a terrible disease, and it's making the rounds in Arizona. The virus attacks multiple body systems, and the best defense is vaccination.

If your puppy is not yet fully vaccinated, limit its interaction with older dogs until the vaccination schedule is complete to keep your young dog safe from these illnesses.

Finally, Bordetella bronchiseptica, also known as kennel cough, is another highly contagious illness that can affect dogs. However, it can also be prevented with a simple vaccination.

This vaccination isn't always given with the standard vaccinations, but if your dog is in public, at a boarding facility, goes to a doggy daycare, or spends any time at the dog park, be sure to add this to his vax schedule.

Always Check with Your Veterinarian for Vax Schedules

Be sure to check with your veterinarian for the most current vaccination advice and keep your pet’s immunizations up to date. Prevention is the best way to keep our beloved dogs healthy and safe.

The Cochise County Sheriff's Office Facebook page highlighted their Animal Control division. They also advise pet owners to get their dogs vaccinated. And also, a random capybara.

[ VCA Animal Hospitals | Merck | American Kennel Club | Cochise County Sheriff ]