Winter Pet Safety
Keeping Your Pet Healthy & Safe During Winter and Extreme Cold Winter in upstate New York has a way of reminding us who’s boss. While we bundle up and grumble our way through it, our pets rely on us to keep them safe, comfortable, and healthy when temperatures drop. A little old-fashioned common sense—backed by […]
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus-1)
What is it?Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease caused by feline herpesvirus-1. It is one of the most common infectious diseases seen in kittens and cats. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Once infected, cats carry the virus for life, with intermittent reactivation during times of stress. Clinical signs may include: […]
Feline Calicivirus
What is it?Feline calicivirus is a contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory system and oral cavity. It is a common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. How is it spread?The virus spreads through: Calicivirus can persist in the environment and is common in multi-cat households and shelters. Clinical signs may include: Rare virulent strains […]
Feline Panleukopenia Virus (Feline Distemper)
What is it?Feline panleukopenia is a severe, often fatal viral disease caused by a parvovirus closely related to canine parvovirus. It primarily affects kittens. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Mortality rates are high, particularly in young kittens. Why vaccination is important:There is no cure. Treatment is intensive and often unsuccessful. […]
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
What is it?Feline leukemia virus is a retroviral infection that suppresses the immune system and increases the risk of cancer, anemia, and secondary infections. How is it spread?FeLV is transmitted through: Kittens are especially susceptible. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:FeLV is a leading cause of death in cats. Vaccination is recommended for […]
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)
What is it?Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory disease of dogs caused by influenza A viruses, most commonly the H3N8 and H3N2 strains. While many cases are mild, CIV can lead to serious respiratory illness, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. How is it spread?CIV spreads rapidly […]
Lyme Disease
What is it?Lyme disease is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. It can affect joints, kidneys, and the nervous system. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:Vaccination, when combined with tick prevention, provides strong protection in endemic areas. Treatment does not always prevent long-term complications, particularly […]
Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)
Bordetella bronchiseptica (Infectious Tracheobronchitis) What is it?Bordetella bronchiseptica is a primary bacterial cause of infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly referred to as kennel cough. It often occurs as part of a multi-agent respiratory complex. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Secondary infections may lead to pneumonia, especially in puppies. Why vaccination is important:Vaccination […]
Leptospirosis
What is it?Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease that primarily affects the kidneys and liver. It poses a health risk to both dogs and humans. How is it spread?Dogs are infected through: The bacteria enter through mucous membranes or broken skin. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:Leptospirosis is common in rural and suburban […]
Rabies Virus
What is it?Rabies is a fatal viral disease of the central nervous system that affects all mammals, including humans. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is invariably fatal. How is it spread?Rabies is transmitted through: Wildlife reservoirs include raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:Rabies vaccination is required by New […]