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? As a loving pet owner, it’s normal to have some concerns about your pet’s safety. But core vaccinations like the DA299 vaccine are not only safe, but vital 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 for Dogs?
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 caused by 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 can even cause neurological dysfunctions over time. Canine distemper can result in paralysis, seizures, and death. Dogs with canine distemper may exhibit fever, weakness, coughing, poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Adenovirus Types 1 and 2
The adenovirus causes hepatitis in dogs, which infects and inflames the liver. Symptoms of this virus include loss of appetite, pain in the abdomen, depression, and fever. Adenovirus type 2 in particular contributes to kennel cough.
Parainfluenza
This highly contagious respiratory virus can also cause kennel cough in dogs. Symptoms of kennel cough include loud coughing, a runny nose, sneezing, and loss of appetite.
Parvovirus (Parvo)
Parvo is an extremely common disease that attacks a dog’s intestines. Parvovirus also reduces your dog’s ability 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 around 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. After that, they can get it either annually or every 3 years, depending on your veterinary clinic’s typical vaccine schedule.
Are there Any Risks or Side Effects of the DA2PP Vaccine?
The DA2PP vaccine usually has very minimal side effects in dogs. Your dog may experience swelling at the injection site, a slight fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These common symptoms are typically short-lived. However, there are some rarer, more serious risks to watch out for.
Contact your vet if you notice the following symptoms following a DA2PP or other 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, so the benefits greatly outweigh the risks. Receiving the proper core vaccinations is extremely important for your dog’s health. Given the lethal nature of canine distemper and the relative rarity of side effects from the vaccine, all reputable veterinarians recommend the DA2PP vaccine.
Does DA2PP Go By Any 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 types 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 highly contagious deadly diseases. The friendly vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona will treat your pets like family. We gently provide the vaccines your dog needs 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