Dog health and disease

Types of vaccines
Vaccinations work by priming the pump, that is, they stimulate the dog’s immune system to produce specific antibodies to fight a subsequent attack by the disease. Vaccines come in two forms: modified live formulas that include a weakened form of the disease and killed or inactivated formulas that have an additional substance called an adjuvant added to boost the immune response. Each has its advantages. Modified live vaccines can cause swift development of long-lasting immunity but may produce mild cases of illness. Killed vaccines are more stable, have a longer shelf life, and do not produce mild infections, but the protection may not last as long. http://catforum.realmsn.com/cat-illness-disease-f3/dog-disease-t32.htm
Distemper
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, distemper is considered one of the worst viruses to strike a dog. In 80% of cases involving a puppy, death is inevitable. 50% of adult dogs suffering from the virus will also lose their life. All canines are highly susceptible to contracting the disease and should be vaccinated with future boosters to continue their immunity.
Rabies
A commonly talked about and feared fatal dog disease is rabies because it not only threatens the life of dogs, but also their owners. The rabies vaccination is required by state and local law, which helps to lessen the numbers of infected domestic pets.
Lyme Disease
Lyme Disease is a bacterial infestation that is spread by ticks, causing dogs to display and suffer from lethargy, fever, joint pain, lack of appetite, as well as lymph node enlargement. Antibiotics, such as tetracycline will help treat this disease.