Health and Vet Care

All dogs adopted through Fishy’s Friends Rescue are vaccinated with the following core shots:

• Rabies: Protects against a fatal virus transmissible to humans. It’s required by law in most areas.

• Parvo: A life-threatening virus that affects the gastrointestinal system, especially in puppies.

• Distemper: A serious illness affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.

Depending on your lifestyle and your dog’s activities, these non-core vaccines may also be important:

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Essential if you plan to board your dog, visit dog parks, or attend training classes.

• Leptospirosis: Protects against a bacteria spread through water or soil, especially in rural or outdoor settings.

• Canine Influenza: Recommended for dogs in areas with frequent outbreaks or high exposure to other dogs.

Vaccines prevent serious, often fatal illnesses and protect not only your dog but also other pets in the community. Ensure your dog stays current with boosters as recommended by your vet to maintain immunity. 

All rescue dogs from Fishy’s Friends are spayed or neutered prior to adoption. This isn’t just a policy—it’s an essential part of responsible pet ownership. 

• Health Benefits: Spaying or neutering reduces the risk of certain cancers and eliminates the risk of uterine infections.

• Behavioral Benefits: It can decrease undesirable behaviors such as marking, aggression, and roaming.

• Community Impact: Prevents unplanned litters and reduces the number of homeless animals in shelters and rescues.

Accidents and emergencies can happen, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Here are some critical health tips:

• Heatstroke:

  • Signs: Excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.

  • What to Do: Move your dog to a cool area, provide water, and use cool (not cold) towels on their body. Avoid ice water, which can shock their system. Call your vet immediately.

• Choking:

  • Signs: Pawing at the mouth, gagging, or difficulty breathing.

  • What to Do: If visible, carefully remove the object with your fingers. For larger objects, use a modified Heimlich maneuver (ask your vet about techniques in advance).

• First Aid Essentials:

  • Wounds: Clean with mild soap and water, then bandage. Seek vet care for deep wounds or excessive bleeding.

  • Poisoning: If your dog ingests something toxic (like chocolate or cleaning products), call your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately.

• Annual Check-Ups: Schedule yearly exams to monitor your dog’s overall health.

• Dental Care: Keep an eye on your dog’s teeth and gums. Dental disease can lead to other health issues.

• Parasite Prevention: Ensure your dog is protected against fleas, ticks, and heartworms year-round.

By staying proactive with vaccines, sterilization, and preventive care, you’re giving your dog the best possible chance at a long, happy, and healthy life.