Canine distemper adenovirus type 2 parainfluenza parvovirus vaccine price

The DHPP vaccination is commonly referred to as a distemper or a distemper-parvo vaccine. It does protect against those two potentially fatal viral infections, but it covers much more. Canine distemper is a contagious viral infection that attacks a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological systems. The parvo virus mainly targets the gastrointestinal tract resulting in vomiting and bloody diarrhea. It also suppresses the patient’s immune system and unfortunately, can even affect the heart. The hepatitis virus most commonly damages the liver, but it can also affect the kidneys, spleen and/or lungs. The last component of this combination vaccine is the parainfluenza virus. This is a respiratory infection that is spread rapidly between dogs.

This is a core vaccination that is needed by all dogs. Without protection, dogs will die from these viral infections. Puppies can be started on this vaccine by 6 weeks of age. They should then receive a high titer low passage booster every 3-4 weeks until they are approximately 16 weeks old. The use of a high titer low passage DHPP vaccine will assist a puppy’s immune system in developing protection at a younger age then DHPP vaccines which are not high titer low passage. It is critical to vaccinate puppies on the appropriate time table. Once a properly vaccinated puppy reaches adulthood, they should receive boosters every 1-3 years as determined by a veterinarian. Adult dogs whose vaccine status is unknown (stray, shelter obtained, etc) should receive a series of 2 vaccines, 2-4 weeks apart, to ensure that they are adequately immunized.

Updated on 9/2/21

Wondering if it’s necessary for your dog to get the canine distemper, adenovirus type 1 and type 2, parainfluenza, and parvovirus (DA2PP) vaccine? At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we know that pet owners often have concerns when it comes to vaccinations. We also know how vital vaccinations are for your pet’s health and longevity! Continue reading to learn more about the DA2PP vaccine and how it will benefit your pet.

What Is the DA2PP Vaccine?

DA2PP is a core vaccine, meaning it is essential for protecting your dog from highly contagious diseases. This vaccine’s acronym comes from the diseases it prevents: canine distemper (D), adenovirus type 1 and  2 (A2), parainfluenza (P), and parvovirus (P). We highly recommend vaccinating your dog with DA2PP in order to prevent the severe symptoms from the following diseases:

Canine distemper 

This often fatal viral illness attacks a dog’s nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. It also makes dogs more vulnerable to infections like pneumonia and causes neurological dysfunctions over time. Distemper can result in paralysis, seizures, and death. Symptoms of canine distemper include fever, weakness, coughing, poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Adenovirus type 1 and 2

This virus causes hepatitis in dogs, which infects and inflames the liver. Symptoms include loss of appetite, pain in the abdomen, depression, and fever. Adenovirus type 2 contributes to kennel cough.

Parainfluenza 

This respiratory virus can also cause kennel cough. Symptoms of kennel cough include loud coughing, a runny nose, sneezing, and loss of appetite. 

Parvovirus 

This extremely common disease attacks a dog’s intestines. Parvovirus also leads to the inability to absorb important nutrients. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dehydration. 

When Do Dogs Typically Receive the DA2PP Vaccine?

Puppies first receive their first dose of the DA2PP vaccine at 8 weeks of age, followed by a booster at 12 weeks of age, and then another at 16 weeks of age. They will need another dose of the DA2PP vaccine when they turn one year old, and after that they can get it either annually or every 3 years, depending on your veterinary clinic’s typical vaccine schedule.

What Are the Risks of the DA2PP Vaccine?

There are usually very minimal side effects of the DA2PP vaccine. Your dog may experience swelling at the injection site, a slight fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are short-lived, but there are still a few rare risks to watch out for. 

Contact your vet if you notice the following symptoms following a DA2PP vaccination:

• Swelling of the neck, eyes, face, or muzzle
• Itching
• Bumps on skin
• Persistent vomiting
• Diarrhea

Keep in mind that serious side effects are very rare and that there is no cure for the canine distemper virus. Receiving the proper core vaccinations is extremely important for your dog’s health. Given the lethal nature of distemper and the relative rarity of side effects from the vaccine, all reputable veterinarians recommend the DA2PP vaccine. 

Does DA2PP Go By Other Names?

While the names DHPP, DAPP, DA2PP, and DAPPC are often used interchangeably, they are all slightly different. However, all of these vaccine acronyms cover the same four viruses:

• DHPP and DAPP cover adenovirus type 1 but may or may not cover type 2. 
• DA2PP covers both adenovirus type 1 and 2.
• The H in DHPP refers to hepatitis caused by adenovirus.
• The C in DAPPC refers to canine coronavirus, which is not covered by any vaccine acronym that is missing the C. 

DAPP or DA2PP are the most commonly used vaccinations among veterinarians. The canine coronavirus vaccination is usually given as a separate vaccine, according to your veterinarian’s discretion.

Dog Vaccinations in Gilbert

Vaccinating your dog is essential for the prevention of canine distemper and other deadly diseases. The friendly vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona will treat your pets like family. We will gently provide the vaccines they need to keep them strong and healthy. Contact us today to schedule an immunization appointment.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/24/2019). Image by Karen Warfel from Pixabay