Lyka Dog food Company

Bek Condello June 2022

In the last two and a half years we have all learned more about viruses, vaccines and herd immunity in humans than we ever thought we needed to know! But what are some of the viruses that affect our furry friends and how can we support their immunity and overall health?

Thankfully in Australia, we have a very effective and accessible vaccination program for our pets, but it can be tricky to know what we need to be looking out for and what our dogs need based on their lifestyles and breed.

Firstly, the most important thing you can do is ensure you build a good relationship with your local veterinarian that will not only provide you with the right advice but someone you can trust with your bestie if they were to ever become unwell. Here you can read more about the increasingly popular choice to access modern holistic health care, which combines knowledge from science-based western medicine and traditional eastern medicine.

Secondly, feeding them a healthy diet of research-based and wholefood ingredients (like you’ll find in our delicious and our personally tailored  boxes) will boost their immune system and maintain their overall good health.

What vaccines should my puppy get?

The RSPCA recommends that all pups should receive Distemper and Parvovirus vaccines which are part of the routine C3 vaccine. Additional vaccines are then based on environmental factors and breed. Other vaccines can include, Canine Influenza Virus and Kennel Cough as well as others.

When a dog is vaccinated its body then creates an adaptive immune response, which produces T-cells and White blood cells. So in simplified terms, when a virus attempts to enter the body those cells recognise, target and destroy the virus before the virus has a chance to infect your best friend, keeping them happy and healthier for longer!

What are some of the common viruses?

Canine Influenza Virus

The Canine Influenza Virus is highly contagious and is spread very similarly to the Influenza Virus in humans through direct contact, as well as when dogs are talking (barking) with each other. Similarly to the human flu, Canine Influenza will often go away on its own, however, it can pose a greater risk for young puppers and our senior friends due to dehydration, pneumonia and secondary infections. Maintaining your dog's hydration and boosting their immunity to fight the virus will help see them back on their paws and tails wagging in no time!

Kennel Cough

Kennel Cough is one of the most common viruses in dogs who are in close proximity to other dogs and left untreated it could become serious. You may have noticed that owners of new puppies will wait until their pup is 16 weeks of age to introduce them to other dogs, as this is when they will finish their round of puppy vaccinations including Kennel Cough. Adult dogs can then be boosted with an annual vaccine to ensure they continue to be protected. If your best friend does get Kennel Cough it is important to keep them quarantined away from other dogs and hydrated. Speak with your vet for specific care and treatment options. Remember that your best mate might get a little sad during their isolation period (we all understand this now more than ever!) so it's important to make sure they feel loved and happy during this time.

Oral Papilloma (Papillomavirus)

Oral Papilloma’s are small tumours that grow inside a dog's mouth and in some cases can spread to the throat and oesophagus, impacting a dog's breathing. It is hard to know exactly how dogs contract the virus however it is more common in immunocompromised dogs or in younger dogs whose immune system is still developing. Dogs can take up to 2-3 months to recover and following an infection, they will then develop antibodies and be immune to further infection. Supporting your pup's immune system can be vital during an infection or prevent infection altogether.

Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus is one of the most contagious and serious viruses a dog can contract and it can remain on surfaces or in an infected environment for up to six months. Luckily the Parvovirus vaccine is included in the standard canine vaccinations and most dogs who contract Parvovirus are unvaccinated or haven't had their booster vaccinations maintained.

Canine Distemper

Canine Distemper can significantly impact your pup’s health if it progresses and can sometimes not show any symptoms at all until it becomes severe and highly contagious. Thankfully as with Parvovirus, it isn't as common, as it is part of the core canine vaccinations and ongoing boosters.

Parasite Related Illnesses

It's not uncommon for your dog to contract some kind of parasite-related illness in their lifetime. There are many different parasites your dog can catch and it can often depend on their lifestyle and environment. Some more common external parasites are fleas, ticks and mites which you can treat topically with usually no ongoing issues. Some common internal parasites are Giardia, as well as several different worms. Internal worms can often be treated quickly and effectively with an oral tablet or capsule purchased from the pet store but others are more serious and will require veterinary care. 

All this can sound a little daunting when all we want to see is our puppers safe and well! However with some simple vaccinations, and supporting your dog to maintain an amazing immune system boosted by our nutritious and science-based diet, they will continue to be their most active and bright-eyed selves!

Join our pack of happy and healthy pups and build a tailor-made box today!