As beloved members of your family, it’s vital to protect the health of your pets, including staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, including getting a parainfluenza vaccine in Mandeville, LA.
Canine parainfluenza is highly contagious, and because of this, it is also quite common. The good news is that the vaccine is safe and effective in preventing the initial infection and spread of the parainfluenza disease. At VetNaturally, we believe that when it comes to animal health, prevention is a better approach to take when possible.
Why Dogs Need the Parainfluenza Vaccine
All pet parents want their dogs to live the longest, healthiest, and happiest life possible. Following a good routine viral immunization schedule that includes getting the parainfluenza vaccine, can go a long way toward ensuring this goal.
The highly contagious nature of parainfluenza makes it vital to seek protection from contracting the illness. Parainfluenza is one of the most common causes of kennel cough, also referred to as Canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD). This is a respiratory disease that can be tough to watch your dog experience. And in some cases, the illness can develop into pneumonia and become serious.
This vaccine is so compelling for many reasons, and we recommend the parainfluenza vaccine for the following benefits:
- Prevent your dog from contracting this highly contagious illness
- Prevent the spread of parainfluenza among the canine community
- Enjoy peace of mind that your dog is safer from parainfluenza at dog parks, grooming appointments, and boarding facilities
Risks of Parainfluenza
Every dog is different, and a mild illness that resolves on its own in one dog can be fatal in another. This is especially true in dogs with vulnerable immune systems, like puppies, seniors, or dogs with a chronic condition.
The most common risks associated with parainfluenza include:
- Respiratory illness characterized by a persistent, harsh cough
- Secondary infections like pneumonia or Bordetella (kennel cough)
- A weakened immune system from battling the illness
While no vaccine is guaranteed to work 100% of the time for respiratory disease control, the parainfluenza vaccine is considered an effective way to protect your dog from the risks of parainfluenza.
What Pet Parents Should Know About the Parainfluenza Vaccine
We know that pet parents do their research before administering any treatment protocols, so we happily provide as much information as possible to help you make an informed decision about your pet’s health.
One of the first steps in the research process is to get a better understanding of a disease like parainfluenza and be aware of the symptoms. The symptoms of parainfluenza include:
- Dry or moist, persistent coughing
- Nasal and eye discharge
- Sneezing
- Fever (typically low grade)
- Lethargy or lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
Thankfully, parainfluenza is preventable with a vaccine, and any side effects associated with the live attenuated vaccine tend to be mild. These side effects may include:
- Temporary soreness at the injection site
- A short-lived mild fever
- Decreased appetite
- Temporary lethargy
- Swelling at injection site
We can discuss these potential side effects and how to manage them during your appointment.
How the Parainfluenza Vaccine is Administered
The parainfluenza vaccine can be administered as either an injection or as an intranasal vaccine for dogs. When done intranasally, it is typically done as a Bordetella and parainfluenza combination vaccine. Parainfluenza can also be included in the DAPP combo vaccination. The veterinary vaccination protocols for this type of administration involve placing vaccine drops into the dog’s nostrils or if it is injectable it will go in the skin subcutaneously.
Whether your dog receives an intranasal vaccine or an injection may depend on several factors. One thing to note is that the intranasal administration may result in faster protection, and dogs who despise needles may be grateful for this alternative.
Schedule Your Canine Parainfluenza Virus Vaccine in Mandeville, LA, Today
Vaccines can be instrumental in protecting your beloved dog from contracting serious and preventable illnesses. At VetNaturally, we recommend a series of vaccines according to a specific schedule to help your dog live a long and healthy life.
To learn more or schedule a vaccine or wellness appointment, call us at (985) 718-9991.
