Parasites (parasitic infections that can be transmitted between animals and humans) fall into two categories: internal and external.

Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms (carried by fleas), heartworms (spread by mosquitoes), and giardia are among the internal parasites that can infect your pet. Examples of external parasites include fleas, ticks (responsible for lyme disease), and mites (sarcoptic mange mite is zoonotic, ear mites and demodectic mange mites are not). Outbreaks are treatable, but to prevent an infection from occurring, have your veterinarian perform a microscopic fecal analysis. Deworming can take place as early as four weeks of age. Parasitic prevention regimens are available as well.

The most important diseases for which vaccines are currently available are:

Rabies: A virus that attacks the brain and central nervous system

Canine Distemper

Canine Adenovirus Types 1 & 2: Cause infectious Hepatitis and respiratory infection

Canine and Feline Bordetella: Bacterial infection that contributes to kennel cough

Canine Leptospirosis: Bacterial infection which may lead to kidney damage

Canine Parainfluenza

Canine Parvovirus: Causes severe dehydrating diarrhea

Canine Coronavirus: Highly contagious intestinal disease causing vomiting and diarrhea

Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): Extremely contagious and characterized by fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR): Highly contagious respiratory disease

Feline Calicivirus (FCV): Respiratory infection

Feline Pneumonitis: Caused by the organism Chlamydia Psittaci

Feline Leukemia Virus (FELV)

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)



WARNING:
Currently there is no way to treat Feline Aids (FIV). Be sure to have your cat tested for Leukemia and Aids. Have your dog tested for heartworms before giving the monthly preventative.