We at Groton City Animal Hospital are concerned about providing the best overall medical care. The veterinarian may vary some of these recommendations depending on your animal’s particular age, breed or other risk factors.

Distemper/Parvo/Lepto Vaccine
Strongly recommended. Puppies require a series of boosters starting at 6 weeks of age. Adults require an annual booster followed by a three year vaccine. We have seen several cases of parvovirus at our hospital this year. This viral disease causes severe diarrhea and vomiting. It is very serious and about 50% of animals will die despite aggressive treatment. Leptospirosis is a spirochete bacteria that causes severe kidney and liver disease. This organism lives in stagnant water such as ponds, swamps and even puddle water. Vaccination for leptospirosis is annual since studies have shown that protection from this portion of the vaccine doesn’t last much beyond 1 year.

Corona Virus
A viral disease causing severe diarrhea especially in young puppies and mild to no signs in adults.

Kennel Cough (Bordetella) Vaccination
It is required by most boarding facilities. A group of viral and bacterial diseased that cause a severe cough and is spread very quickly and easily when dogs are housed together. Prevents upper respiratory infection. Given once a year and at least 7-10 days prior to going to a kennel. This vaccine is also strongly recommended for dogs involved in shows, field trials or other activities where there are many dogs in attendance.

Lyme Vaccination
A bacterial disease causing vague signs of illness leading to arthritis in the joints similar to Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is spread by the bite of an infected Three Host Deer Tick. Recommended if you have many ticks in your area or if you travel with your dog to areas that have a current Lyme disease problem (Syracuse area, Pennsylvania and South and New England)