by Merck Animal Health
Congratulations, you have a new family member! The next years are going to be filled with tons of fun and unconditional love. There are also many things to consider as you start this adventure. Nutrition, behavior, and preventative care are so important in maximizing your pet’s life.

There is a lot to learn! Remember, the most important first step is to make an appointment
with your veterinarian. Your veterinary team will review your pet’s lifestyle and make recommendations for preventative care that is the very best for your new friend. Your veterinary team is your partner in helping your pet live a long and healthy life!
Learn here about the different infectious diseases of dogs and cats that can be prevented through vaccination! Below is a very brief review to help you better understand your pet’s care.
Make an appointment to see your veterinarian – ideally within the first 48-72 hours of bringing your pet home.
Take a fecal sample and all records
The veterinarian and staff will recommend all appropriate preventative care and testing that we will discuss below
A complete exam will be done to identify any health concerns such as congenital or infectious diseases
Testing recommendations
Puppies – fecal exam and depending on age possible a blood test to screen for tick and mosquito borne diseases
Vaccines
Canine Distemper
Caused by Canine Distemper Virus
Highly contagious
Occurs naturally in a wide range of animals (fox, coyotes, minks, racoons)
Transmitted via inhalation of the virus particles
Wide range of symptoms – respiratory and nervous system
Parvo
Caused by Canine Parvo Virus
Transmitted by direct contact with virus containing feces or indirectly with contact with fecal contaminated environment or equipment
Attacks the lining of the digestive tract
Causes severe illness that can result in death
Hepatitis
Caused by adeno virus
Transmitted by ingestion or inhalation of virus particles from urine, feces, respiratory secretions
Wide range of symptoms from mild fever to acute death
Parainfluenza
Caused by Parainfluenza virus
Transmitted by inhalation of the virus
Causes damage to the cells lining the upper respiratory tract
Lyme
Caused by the bacteria Borrelia Burgdorferi
Transmitted by a bite from the Black Legged Tick
Leptospirosis
Caused by a spirochete bacteria
Spread by contact with urine or water, soil or vegetation contaminated with urine from infected animals
Causes liver and kidney disease – can be fatal
Can be transmitted to humans
Bordetella
Caused by the Bordetella bacteria
Transmitted by inhalation of the virus
Attack the lining of the respiratory tract
Canine influenza
Caused by two strains of the Canine influenza virus
Transmitted by inhalation of aerosolized particles
Rabies
Caused by Rabies Virus
Transmitted by bite of an infected animal
Can be transmitted to humans
This post written and sponsored by Merck Animal Health