Parkway Veterinary Hospital

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that infects dogs and people. The bacterial infection damages the liver and kidneys, and can cause death. The disease is spread through contact with infected urine. Wild animals such as raccoons and opossums can carry the bacteria and contaminate the environment. Vaccinating your dog helps prevent your dog from contracting the disease.

Kittens are due to start vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks of age. They should receive 2-3 FVRCP vaccines (often refered to as a distemper vaccine), spaced about 3-4 weeks apart. They do not receive a rabies vaccine until at least three months of age. Kittens may also receive a leukemia vaccine based on risk factors. This should be discussed with the veterinarian.

Vaccines are typically started between 6 and 8 weeks of age. The puppy receives a DHLPP-C (distemper, adenovirus, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, coronavirus) every 3 to 4 weeks until four months of age.
Rabies vaccines are not given until the puppy is three months old. Lyme vaccines can be given to puppies 9 weeks of age and older. The puppy receives two lyme vaccines spaced 2 to 3 weeks apart.

This is not an uncommon problem. It probably means that your dog has full or infected anal glands. These glands help dogs to mark their territory through scent. They usually empty themselves every time a dog defecates. They can become clogged, however, and unable to empty, and sometimes infection can develop. When this happens, your dog feels a constant, itchy pressure. It can be very uncomfortable. To get your dog relief, make an appointment with your veterinarian. She can empty (or "express") the glands, a messy and extremely smelly job, but one that will make your pooch feel much better. If the glands are infected, she can clean them and prescribe an antibiotic. If your dog has a chronic, recurring problem with infected anal glands, they can be surgically removed. For more information, talk to your veterinarian.