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Piroplasmosis

Vaccinations for your pet

If you are travelling in Europe then your dog should have a current rabies vaccination , this is essential. Additional vaccines should be kept up to date and check that they are not going to run out on holiday. Your dog will be encountering different bugs and so may be at more risk than you would be at home. Vaccinations to do are a routine booster for Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus and Leptospirosis. You may wish to consider vaccinating also against kennel cough. Sometimes this is given as a part of the booster as PI or Para influenza. It's OK but doesn't give full cover. You can have an intranasal vaccine ( a few drops squirted up your dogs nose) against kennel cough this can give more protection although none are a 100% guarantee against kennel cough.

A vaccine is also possible against Piroplasmosis, I am advised that it is, again, not fully protective and it is still possible to get the disease.

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Leishmanns disease (Leishmaniasis)

This is a disease transmitted by the Sand fly. It is not a problem in the UK but affects dogs in southern France, Spain, Portugal and other countries with a sub tropical climate. The disease once contracted is terminal but can be treated to delay its progression. Prevention is the best option and this is easily done by a regular treatment with a flea control product such as Frontline on a regular basis. Please note that this disease can be transmitted to humans and so its wise to protect yourself in areas where the sand fly is prevalent.

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Piroplasmosis (Babesiosis or Tick Fever)

This is a disease that carries many forms and is not a big problem in the UK. Travel in Europe could place your dog at risk from this disease. It is also fatal if not treated, but treatment is, if given early very often successful. It is carried by a tick and again prevention is by treating your dog with a good flea control product such as Frontline. Tablets such as Program are not effective against ticks and in my experience a flea collar is not either. After trips into long grass it is wise to check your dog for ticks. Any that appear can be carefully removed using special tick remover tweezers or a spray with a flea product will finish them off.

It is possible to vaccinate against Piroplasmosis but I understand that it is still possible to get the disease.

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Lymes Disease

This is a disease that can affect humans and dogs. It is now appearing in certain areas of the UK but may not be encountered unless you are specifically in those areas. It is again carried by a tick and one that is found on deer. So the same advice is given as for Piroplasmosis. Treat preventatively using a flea control product and remove ticks found after a walk. It can be found in areas with mild winter climates and deer populations. A vaccine is available against Lymes disease it is still experimental and not widely available.

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Heart Worm (Dirofilaria)

Heart worm is a problem for dogs living in sub tropical environments. It is transmitted by the mosquito and, although not endemic in the UK, it can be found in the more southern parts of Europe. This parasite can cause severe damage to the heart as well as affecting the kidneys. Preventative tablets are the best option. They are not widely available in the UK but should you feel you may be travelling in an area that puts your pet at risk speak to your vet about the possibility of starting treatment before you leave.

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General Advice for Dogs

I have not listed symptoms as self diagnosis is not really a good idea. If you have concerns over your pets health please visit a vet for advice. The prime aim here is to encourage preventative measures and then you won't need to go to a vet. I would also encourage worming your pet with a broad spectrum wormer periodically.

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