POMONA, N.Y., April 13, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leptospirosis disease is spread by a bacteria-like organism that poses serious health risks for animals and humans. "A simple, independent vaccination can significantly prevent pets from contracting this disease though," says veterinarian, Dr. Christopher Puzio, founder of Rockland Veterinary hospitals in the Valley Cottage, North Rockland, and Pomona area. Leptospirosis, a disease that affects humans and a variety of animals can be contracted by pets living from farm lands to the city. An advocate for pet safety and animal wellness, Dr. Puzio educates his patients on how invaluable the leptospirosis vaccination is for their pet's longevity.
While many vaccinations are administered in combination to animals, some veterinarians suggest giving the vaccine against leptospirosis independently. Dr. Puzio says, "We administer the parvo and distemper vaccination first then suggest our patients return several weeks later to complete the leptospirosis vaccination." Dr. Puzio explained that the vaccinations efficacy is improved when administered on its own.
Reducing communicable diseases through prevention and vaccination is a huge ongoing effort of Rockland Veterinary. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the animals known to commonly spread leptospirosis are rodents, raccoons, opossums, cattle, swine, dogs, horses, buffalo, sheep, and goats. This poses risks to both animals and owners of animals who may be farmers, persons working in slaughterhouses, fisherman, dairy farmers, mine workers, and military personnel. Even a veterinarian runs the risk of contracting leptospirosis. While communication can be prevented by avoiding animal urine and body fluids with open wounds and mucous membranes, Dr. Puzio advises both farm owners and owners of domestic animals to seek preventive, leptospirosis vaccination.
Dr. Puzio warns that signs and symptoms can be experienced two days to four weeks following exposure to leptospirosis. Common signs and symptoms of leptospirosis include fever and chills, headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), skin rashes and red eyes. "Scientists are working to improve the leptospirosis vaccination on a continued basis," says Dr. Puzio. "Because there are several strains of the disease that can affect animals, the current vaccination, while effective against the spread, does not provide 100 % protection. The more animals we have the opportunity to vaccinate, the more we can learn about how to develop even more effective vaccine protection against the numerous leptospirosis strains."
The team at Rockland Veterinary proudly serves the lower Hudson Valley. The network of three clinics are conveniently located in Pomona, Valley Cottage, and North Rockland with services including general pet wellness, pet dental care, vaccinations, and spay and neuter services. Passionate about their community, the Rockland Veterinary staff is also involved in community outreach programs throughout the year.
Rockland Veterinary 1-888-667-5235
