Dogs are susceptible to various diseases. The most common among them is babesiosis. It is caused by a protozoan parasite, most commonly Babesia canis, Babesia gibsoni, and Babesia rossi. This parasite enters the canine’s bloodstream generally through a tick bite, or through direct blood contact like (transfusions, mother to pup or during fighting).
This parasite infects and destroys red blood cells, reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which can put your beloved pup at serious risk, as their vital organs like the heart, brain, kidneys, and liver suffer from hypoxia – a condition where it is hard to get enough oxygen.
To prevent serious complications, a special pet vaccination is administered to dogs. The antibodies produced by the immunization eliminate toxins and neutralize substances released into the pet’s body by parasites. This alleviates the symptoms of Babesiosis and slows its progression.
Signs That Your Pup May Be Struggling with Babesiosis
Here are some of the common signs that indicate your furry friend might be struggling with Babesiosis:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Pale gums (due to anemia)
- Yellowing of eyes (Jaundice)
- Weight loss
- Excessive water consumption
- Dark-colored urine (from red blood cell destruction)
Effective Vaccines Used to Prevent Babesiosis
In veterinary medicine, two drugs are used to combat Babesiosis. The only difference lies in their duration of action, species involved and cost, while other characteristics remain the same.
Pirodog
This vaccine contains only one antigen, Babesia canis, which leads veterinarians to consider it less effective. At the same time, it has fewer side effects. It is administered twice, with an interval of 21 to 28 days. Natural immunity appears within two to three weeks after the second injection and lasts up to six months.
Nobivac Piro
It includes two antigens: Babesia rossi and Babesia canis, making it more effective than Pirodog. However, the higher concentration of active substances leads to more side effects. It is also administered twice at an interval of 21 to 40 days. Immunity develops two weeks after administration and lasts for up to one year.
Both of these vaccinations help canines tolerate the disease better and reduce the symptoms of the disease effectively. However, you are advised to monitor your pet closely.
Rules for Immunizing Your Canines
When vaccinating your pets against babesiosis, you need to consider several factors and follow certain restrictions. Your furry companion can tolerate the procedure with ease and is less likely to experience side effects if these conditions are met:
- Dogs that are 5 months old can receive the Pirodog vaccination, while Nobivac Piro is appropriate for pets older than 6 months of age.
- Deworm your pups two weeks before vaccination.
- The pet must be completely healthy, without any signs of even mild malaise.
- The vaccination is not suitable for pregnant dogs.
- If the pet has already suffered from babesiosis, the procedure is carried out after 2 months from the date of recovery and special therapy.
- The effect of vaccination may be lower in dogs with immunodeficiency, chronic diseases, and those that have already suffered from Babesiosis.
- The first stage of the procedure is carried out 2 months before the tick season.
- If there is a risk of allergic reactions, taking antihistamines is allowed.
- According to an expert veterinarian Dubai, there should be a gap of at least 3 weeks between the Babesiosis vaccination and other vaccines.
