What is the DAPPv Vaccine and Why is it Important?

You may have questions if you’re new to puppy vaccines (or maintaining an adult dog vaccination schedule). From the benefits of annual vaccinations to understanding how a Rabies vaccination and DAPPv vaccination can help protect your pet, we’re here to help.

What Does the DAPPv Vaccine Protect Against?

What Does the DAPPv Vaccine Protect Against?

The DAPPv vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. DAPPv is a primary immunization included in a puppy vaccine schedule. Once your puppy has received the primary and booster DAPPv vaccine, you’ll continue with annual revaccination to ensure continued protection against the risk of infection.

Below is an explanation of the diseases this combination vaccine protects your pet from.

Canine Distemper

The Canine Distemper virus is a disease that affects puppies and dogs. When your pet is infected with this virus, they can experience severe side effects to their gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems. Distemper can cause long-term side effects, including seizures and pneumonia, which is why protecting your pet with the proper canine vaccinations (like the DAPPv) is so critical.

Adenovirus

Canine adenoviruses include type 1 and type 2, which are responsible for both hepatitis and tracheobronchitis. These viruses can cause coughing, gagging, and symptoms like fever, lethargy, nasal discharge, and more. Infections can lead to more severe side effects (like pneumonia) if your dog is young or has other health complications.

Hepatitis

The Hepatitis virus is highly contagious and can cause congestion, fever, and watery discharge from the nose and your pet’s eyes. Severe symptoms include blindness and blood clotting deficiency. Protecting your both from Adenovirus 1 and 2, including Hepatitis, with a broad protection vaccine like the DAPPv is extremely important to ensure your dog stays healthy from the first few weeks of age to those senior years.

Parainfluenza

Canine parainfluenza virus is also known as CPIV. This respiratory virus is one of the most common pathogens of “canine cough” or infectious tracheobronchitis. If your pet has parainfluenza, you may notice a dry or wet cough, a low-grade fever, and a loss of appetite or energy. Vomiting and nasal discharge are other common side effects. In immuno-compromised pets (or dogs a few months of age), pneumonia can lead to long-term or fatal consequences.

Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus (parvo) is a highly contagious disease that can easily pass through direct contact with an infected dog or feces from an infected dog. Lethargy is a milder side sign of parvo. More serious symptoms include fever, abdominal pain and bloating, hypothermia, intestinal and immune system damage, and even septic shock. This disease can be fatal, and protecting your pet is a top priority.

General Information About DAPPv

The DAPPv vaccine is a core vaccine required for dogs. A core vaccination is one that has been identified by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) as critical for your pet’s health and safety.

At Metrovet, we follow the recommendations for core puppy vaccines (and adult dogs) in addition to the recommended puppy vaccination schedule. We’re happy to explain the benefits of vaccinations or answer any questions you may have regarding your pet.

Side Effects

If you’re just beginning with core puppy vaccinations or introduction dog vaccinations, you may want to know what side effects to expect. A reaction to vaccinations can occur but, in most cases, is mild and resolves naturally within 24 to 48 hours.

The most common side effects of vaccinations are lethargy, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. If you notice anything that is concerning or doesn’t resolve quickly after receiving a vaccination (or series of vaccinations), contact the team at Metrovet.

Benefits

The benefits of the DAPPv vaccination include additional protection against the diseases we outlined above. Distemper, Adenovirus, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza can impact your dog’s health and sometimes become fatal. Maintaining a proper vaccination routine is the best way to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Risks

The most common risks of the DAPPv vaccine are the typical side effects that can occur after receiving a primary vaccination. They include lethargy, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. You may also notice slight swelling at the vaccination site. All of these symptoms typically resolve in 24 to 48 hours.

Why the DAPPv Vaccine is Important

The DAPPv vaccine is the best way to protect your pet against serious diseases like Distemper, Adenovirus, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.

DAPPv Vaccine Schedule for Dogs

DAPPv Vaccine Schedule for Dogs

AdultsAdult dogs are typically vaccinated on an annual basis. This schedule includes the DAPPv and Rabies vaccination.

Puppies – Puppy vaccinations should begin when your puppy is weaned (usually between 6-10 weeks old). From there, shots are administered every 2-4 weeks until roughly 14-16 weeks.

Schedule Your Vaccination Appointment With Metrovet

At Metrovet, we’re committed to keeping your pets happy and healthy. If you have questions about the DAPPv vaccine, or want to schedule an appointment, just click here

FAQs

What shots do dogs need every year?

At Metrovet, we follow the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommendations, which include the Rabies and DAPPv vaccines. Depending on your pet’s specific health and risks, additional vaccines may be recommended.

Is DAPP the same as Distemper?

DAPP stands for Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. DAPP is the name of the vaccine that protects against Distemper disease.

How much does the DAPPv vaccine cost?

At Metrovet, we try to ensure our vaccinations and healthcare options are affordable. Additional services and exam fees contribute to the overall average cost of an appointment, so contact us to request a quote.

What is another name for the DAPPv vaccine?

DHPP, DA2PP, DAPPC, DHPP, and DAPPv are frequently used interchangeably, and while the vaccines are slightly different, all include protection against Distemper.

If you’re searching for a trusted clinic for your animal family, give us a call. We would love to answer any questions and be your go-to vet.

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No health situation or illness is the same and all of our patients and clients come to us with unique needs.

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