Leptospirosis (or “lepto” for short) is a serious bacterial disease that affects both animals and people. All dogs are at risk for lepto, whether they live in urban, suburban, or rural environments. The bacteria, found worldwide in water or wet soil, spreads through the urine of infected animals and wildlife. 

“Leptospirosis can progress rapidly and affect multiple internal organs, including the kidneys and liver,” says Dr. Karen O’Connor, Regional Veterinary Medical Director of Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. “Vaccination against leptospirosis primes your pet's immune system to respond and helps to protect them from the disease.” 

Once infected, lepto can cause fever, vomiting, and lethargy. In severe cases, it may lead to lasting liver or kidney damage or escalate to become fatal. In fact, more than 80% of dogs with leptospirosis develop serious kidney problems, and even dogs that recover may still be at risk of chronic kidney failure. Some dogs become asymptomatic carriers, meaning they show no symptoms at all but can still spread the disease to other pets and even people.  

Because leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease (meaning it can pass from animals to humans), protecting your dog also helps protect you and your family. All dogs who contract lepto are at risk of spreading the disease to humans. 

Why the Lepto Vaccine Matters 

Here’s the good news: lepto is preventable. The leptospirosis vaccine helps your dog’s immune system recognize and fight off the bacteria before it can cause serious illness. 

Both the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) classify leptospirosis as a core vaccine, making it just as necessary as the rabies vaccine. “Core” vaccines are considered essential for every dog, regardless of where they live or play, because the risk of exposure is widespread and the consequences are serious. 

If your pup enjoys visiting boarding facilities, dog parks, daycare, the groomer, or just exploring the great outdoors, they’re at a higher risk of encountering lepto. Even dogs living in urban areas can be exposed through puddles or shared potty areas where wildlife or other pets might pass through.  

Dr. O'Connor adds, “If your dog’s feet or nose touch the ground, they can be exposed to leptospirosis. Vaccination is the simplest and most effective way to protect them.” 

A Simple Step for Big Protection 

At Pet Paradise, our goal is to keep pets and their people safe. Leptospirosis cases continue to be reported across the country each year, and as more dogs enjoy social playtime, the potential for exposure grows. That’s why, beginning on August 1, 2026, we’re aligning with AAHA and ACVIM guidance to require all dogs to be fully vaccinated against leptospirosis. 

The leptospirosis vaccine is given as an initial two-part series (spaced 2–4 weeks apart), followed by an annual booster. Adverse reactions are exceptionally rare. 

Vaccination is one of the simplest ways to protect your dog from preventable diseases like leptospirosis. If you have questions about the vaccine or your dog’s vaccination schedule, speak with your veterinarian. 

For more information about why we’re giving our vaccine requirements a tune-up, click here. 

“Canine influenza can spread rapidly between dogs, especially in shared spaces,” says Dr. Karen O’Connor, Regional Veterinary Medical Director of Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. “Even dogs that appear healthy or aren’t showing symptoms can be contagious. Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect your dog from the canine flu.” 

More Than Just a Cough 

Unlike typical kennel cough, canine flu symptoms can be severe. Dogs may develop fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite, and breathing difficulties. In some cases, the illness progresses to pneumonia, which can escalate to become fatal.  

Dogs who spend time around other dogs are at higher risk. If your pet visits boarding facilities, daycare, or the groomer, they may encounter the flu even if they don’t interact directly with other dogs. In fact, the virus can travel over 20 feet every time an infected dog coughs or barks, landing on objects that remain infectious for others. 

Vaccination: Your Dog’s Best Defense 

Fortunately, dogs can be vaccinated to help their immune system fight the virus. Dr. O'Connor adds, “The vaccine reduces the severity of illness and decreases an infected dog’s ability to transmit the virus to others. While it does not always completely prevent infection, it provides important protection for your dog and for other pets.” 

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), “Virtually all dogs who have not been exposed to the canine influenza virus become infected when exposed.” AAHA also noted that 80% of dogs who are infected with the canine flu become sick.  

The canine influenza vaccine is given initially in two doses, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, followed by an annual booster. Adverse reactions are exceptionally rare. If you have questions about the vaccine or your dog’s vaccination schedule, speak with your veterinarian. 

It’s important to note that the canine influenza vaccine is different from combination vaccines that protect against parainfluenza or kennel cough. A typical kennel cough vaccine will not protect against canine flu. 

Protecting Our Pack 

At Pet Paradise, our goal is to protect every guest from preventable illness while keeping pets safe, happy, and healthy. That’s why, beginning on August 1, 2026, we will require all dogs to be fully vaccinated against canine influenza. Staying current on vaccinations helps reduce the risk of illness for your dog and for every pet they encounter. 

For more information about why we’re giving our vaccine requirements a tune-up, click here. 

“Vaccines train your pet’s immune system to fight off contagious and potentially serious diseases, which helps protect both your dog and the pets in your community,” says Dr. Clay Hellner of Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. Understanding the science behind vaccines can help you see why staying up to date on vaccinations is one of the best ways to safeguard your dog’s health. 

How Vaccines Help the Immune System Learn 

Vaccines work by teaching the immune system how to recognize and respond to specific diseases. According to Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, a vaccine exposes the body to a harmless version of a pathogen (like a virus or bacterium, for example). To get technical, the vaccine is composed of an antigen (a small piece of a pathogen) and an adjuvant (a “whistleblower”) which tells the immune system to react and be ready for future encounters.  

In short, a vaccine gives the immune system a “practice run” against a disease before it encounters the real thing. When a vaccinated dog meets the real disease later, their immune system knows exactly what to do: protect against infection. This is called “immunological memory,” and it turns a simple shot into a big layer of protection. 

All this immune system training can take up to a couple of weeks. And even after the first dose, your dog’s body may not have enough protective cells built up yet. That’s why booster vaccines are so important: they give the immune system another chance to strengthen its response and build the level of protection your dog needs to fight off disease. 

Vaccines: Your Dog’s Safety Net 

One of the biggest misconceptions about vaccines is that they stop disease entirely. While some vaccines can prevent infection, others are designed to reduce severity and the risk of transmission. Respiratory illnesses like canine influenza (“flu”) or kennel cough (Bordetella) are good examples. 

Even if a vaccinated dog is exposed to a disease like the canine flu, their symptoms are milder and shorter in duration compared to an unvaccinated dog. As Dr. Hellner explains, “A vaccine is like a safety net. It helps prevent the worst outcomes and limits the spread of illness to other pets.” 

What Happens If You Don’t Vaccinate Your Dog? 

Choosing not to vaccinate leaves your dog vulnerable to many preventable illnesses, and some of these diseases can become severe very quickly. Dogs without vaccine protection are more likely to develop complications, require emergency care, or face significantly longer recovery times when they get sick. 

Many contagious diseases spread before symptoms are obvious, which means an unvaccinated dog can unknowingly put other pets at risk. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, rabies, kennel cough, canine flu, and leptospirosis are highly contagious, which is why vaccination plays such an important role in your dog’s long-term health. 

Some diseases, like rabies and leptospirosis, are zoonotic, meaning humans can contract the disease from dogs. Staying up to date on vaccines helps protect both the pets and people in your community. 

Common Myths About Dog Vaccines 

Let’s clear up some of the most common vaccine myths so you can protect your dog with confidence. 

Myth: “Vaccines are risky and commonly cause adverse reactions.” 

Fact: Vaccine reactions are considered uncommon. According to a recent study, fewer than 0.2% of dogs experience an adverse reaction to vaccines. The most common vaccine reactions include swelling at the injection site, muscle soreness, swollen lymph nodes, or mild fever for a couple days. Those symptoms are a sign that the vaccine is doing its job and training the immune system to fight the real disease. 

Myth: “My dog is small, so they should get a smaller vaccine dose.” 

Fact: Vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system. A smaller dose wouldn’t create the protection your pet needs. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), vaccine doses do not change based on a dog’s size, and there is no evidence that lowering the volume of a vaccine will prevent an adverse event. 

Myth: “Vaccines don’t completely prevent every infection, so there’s no point!” 

Fact: Reducing the severity of symptoms is a major success. A mild cough instead of pneumonia makes a meaningful difference for a dog’s health and safety. 

Myth: “My dog is indoors most of the time, so vaccines aren’t necessary.” 

Fact: Even indoor-only dogs can be exposed to diseases. Some viruses can even travel on shoes or clothing without any direct contact with another animal. Additionally, pets can be exposed through routine veterinary visits, grooming appointments, boarding stays, or contact with visiting pets. 

Myth: “My dog’s vaccines only protect my dog.” 

Fact: Vaccines help protect the entire pet community. When a dog is vaccinated, it reduces how much disease can circulate in places where pets spend time together. With more dogs protected, contagious illnesses have fewer chances to spread. In the case of zoonotic diseases like leptospirosis or rabies, vaccines protect both pets and people alike. 

A Smart Step Toward a Healthier Future 

Vaccines aren’t just part of a to-do list. They’re one of the best ways to help dogs stay healthy and avoid preventable illnesses. As Dr. Hellner says, “Vaccination is one of the kindest things we can do for our pets. We’re helping their immune system prepare for risks they can’t see.” 

For more information about wellness and preventive care, explore our blog on vaccines for outgoing pets. 

A few extra pounds on your pet might seem harmless, but all that fluff can add up fast. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support their long-term health. The right balance of food and exercise can help pets stay spry and strong as they age. 

Why Healthy Weight Matters 

“Even a few extra pounds can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s mobility and overall health, especially for small animals, when being overweight by 1 pound can represent 10% or even 20% of their body weight,” says Dr. Joanne Connolly, veterinarian at NewDay Veterinary Care. “Pets that maintain a healthy weight are usually more active, play longer, and experience fewer chronic health issues as they age.” 

Maintaining a healthy weight can help pets feel their best, but straying too far in either direction (too heavy or too skinny) can create serious health challenges. 

• Too heavy: Over time, extra weight can put stress on your pet’s joints, increasing the risk of arthritis and reducing their mobility. Overweight pets may have a shorter lifespan and are more likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.
• Too skinny: Low body weight can indicate malnutrition, intestinal parasites, or serious underlying medical issues. Always speak to your veterinarian if you are concerned about your pet’s weight loss. Underweight pets may also experience fatigue, weakened immunity, or organ problems. 

 

Weighing In: How to Tell if Your Pet is the Right Size 

Healthy weight isn’t one-size-fits-all. Breed, age, body frame, and whether your pet is spayed or neutered all influence what “just right” means. A Basset Hound’s ideal shape will look nothing like a Labrador’s, while a Greyhound's lean silhouette is perfectly normal for their breed. 

Dr. Connolly recommends using a Body Condition Score (BCS) as a guide to give you an idea of what to look for. “It’s a simple way to check your pet’s weight. In general, you should be able to feel your pet’s ribs just a little bit, without pressing too hard, but not see them. You should see a subtle waist from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side.” 

Remember to always work with your veterinarian to determine the healthiest weight for your dog or cat. Knowing your pet’s ideal shape can make all the difference towards supporting a long, healthy life! 

For a pet, boarding in a new place means adjusting to a routine that feels different from home. There are new friendly faces to greet them and fresh smells to explore. With a little preparation before arrival, that first day can feel less like stepping into the unknown and more like settling into a safe, familiar place. 

“Helping your pet get acclimated to a new environment helps create happy memories and positive associations before a longer boarding stay,” says Dr. Clay Hellner, Chief Veterinary Officer at Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. “This can reduce their stress, leading to an even more fun and enriching experience!” Translation: preparation leads to more tail wags! 

A lack of experience in new environments can trigger fear in pets, according to the Animal Humane Society. And it’s not just dogs with a known anxiety diagnosis who might get nervous. Many pets can get nervous simply because they’re unfamiliar with a new place or routine. That’s why gradual introductions and positive experiences before boarding can make all the difference. 

“Set your pet up for success while you are away by easing their transition into boarding, especially if it’s their first time,” says Dr. Hellner. “Introducing your pet to the boarding environment beforehand helps them feel more secure. If your best friend suffers from separation anxiety, they may need additional preparation before their stay.” 

When it comes to cognitive skills such as reading, writing, or performing arithmetic, the phrase, “Use it or lose it!” comes to mind. Science tells us that to keep your brain executing tasks efficiently, humans must stimulate their mind to keep those mental processes sharp.  

Our four-legged friends aren’t much different! According to Dr. Karen O'Connor, Regional Veterinary Medical Director at NewDay Veterinary Care + Pet Paradise, “Dogs need to be mentally challenged to keep their skills sharp and prevent cognitive decline as they age. Brain health is just as important for pets as it is for humans in maintaining their overall well-being.” 

However, activities that promote healthy brain development in pets need to be suited for their abilities and needs. Keep reading to learn more about how mental stimulation for dogs improves their quality of life and how to incorporate best practices at home! 

Importance for Mental Stimulation for Dogs 

Brain health for dogs doesn’t just mean they can perform cool tricks on command — it impacts their behavior and well-being over the course of their lives. A healthy brain for your four-legged friend ensures that:

• Cognitive functioning is supported, meaning they can adapt to new situations, learn, and remember cues more efficiently.
• Problem behaviors are reduced. Bored dogs find entertainment in barking, chewing furniture, and other destructive behaviors — so finding a positive outlet for their energy benefits you just as much as it does them.
• Their emotional well-being is healthy. Science proves a more stimulated brain promotes a calmer, mentally balanced dog.
• Confidence is boosted. When pups are able to learn a trick or solve a problem, they feel more self-assured when they encounter a change in routine or environment. 

 

More importantly, consistent mental stimulation for dogs over the course of their lifetimes lessens their risk of developing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. This disease is similar to dementia in humans and increases in likelihood as pets age. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, approximately 14–22.5% of dogs older than 8 years-old suffer from age-related cognitive impairment. Helping your pet to maintain their brain health as they age is critical for their long-term well-being.

How Mental and Physical Exercise Work Together 

Although mental and physical activities are different, they both complement each other. Physical exercise releases positive brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin, which boosts your pet’s mood while reducing stress. Additionally, cardiovascular activity increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, resulting in clearer thinking and faster learning.  

Both types of exercise are crucial outlets for your pet’s energy. Limited physical activity can cause your dog to be restless and hyperactive, while a lack of mental stimulation in dogs can cause them to turn to destructive behaviors as a form of entertainment. Finding the right balance of activities based on your pet’s breed, age, and ability level is key in ensuring your pet’s health is well-balanced!  

Brain Game Ideas 

There are several activities to promote mental stimulation in dogs as well as physical fitness, such as:

• Obstacle courses: Set up cones, cushions, or other household items to create a DIY agility challenge.
• Scent work: Teach your dog to hunt down a scent, such as a treat or a caffeine-free herbal tea bag! Hide the item in easier places at first, gradually increasing the difficulty of the location.
• Food puzzle toys: Snuffle Mats, treat-dispensing balls, and Kong stuffing toys are all great ways to encourage your pet’s problem- solving skills.
• Trick learning and training: Dog training involving verbal commands and hand cues keeps your dog learning. 

“Heart health starts with daily habits,” says Dr. Karen O’Connor, Regional Veterinary Medical Director at Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. “Consistent movement, healthy weight management, preventative care, and routine veterinary visits are essential to maintaining long-term cardiovascular wellness in dogs and cats.” 

Let’s take a closer look at how movement and veterinary care come together to support your pet’s cardiovascular health. 

How Much Exercise Does Your Pet Need? 

While every pet is different, daily activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health. “Pet parents often ask, ‘How much exercise does my pet really need?’” says Dr. O’Connor. “The answer depends on breed, age, and overall health, but almost all pets benefit from some type of activity each day.” Always speak with your veterinarian before beginning an exercise regimen with your pet. 

For dogs: Most healthy dogs need daily exercise. Some high-energy breeds may need more than others, especially younger or always-on-the-go breeds like Border Collies or Siberian Huskies. Other breeds, like Basset Hounds, tend to be "couch potatoes" and may not need as much activity, but they still benefit from regular movement to stay healthy. Depending on your dog’s needs, they may need anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours of daily exercise. 

For cats: We recommend that cats get some form of interactive play daily. It doesn’t have to be all at once. Short sessions of chasing a feather wand or batting at a ball can go a long way! Cats prefer brief, high-intensity activities rather than long bouts of exercise.  

“Even 10-to-15-minute play sessions, spread throughout the day, can make a meaningful impact on your pet’s heart health,” adds Dr. O’Connor. “Try to make physical activity part of your pet’s daily routine, not an afterthought.” 

There are plenty of benefits to exercise beyond just physical health. Dr. O’Connor adds, “Did you know that the number one reason pets develop behavior problems is because of a lack of proper exercise?” Regular activity helps reduce boredom and anxiety, which can lead to unwanted behaviors. A well-exercised pet is often a happier, calmer companion. 

Counting Steps: Keeping Tabs on Your Pet’s Daily Activity 

Wondering how much your pet actually moves in a day? Pet step counts are becoming a popular way to track activity. Devices like pet activity trackers attach to your pet’s collar and can help give you some insight into how active your pet is. 

At NewDay Veterinary Care, all wellness visits include a full physical exam. The veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart, checking for any murmurs or arrhythmias. Your veterinarian can help you catch potential heart issues early and perform additional diagnostics or make recommendations based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Your vet might also suggest diet changes or supplements to support a healthy weight and circulatory system. 

Vaccines are another critical part of preventive care, helping to safeguard your pet’s overall health. Illnesses like leptospirosis and canine influenza can place additional stress on the heart and other internal organs, especially in pets with preexisting conditions. Keeping your pet up to date on vaccinations helps reduce the risk of complications that could otherwise negatively affect their heart health. Vaccines are one of the simplest ways to help keep your pet protected year-round. 

Heart Health is a Habit 

Whether it’s a walk around the block or playtime at camp, daily activity helps keep your pet’s heart strong. Pair that with regular preventative veterinary care, and you’re giving your pet the best chance at a happy, healthy future. A little movement goes a long way toward heart health! 

Out and About: Why Social Pets Need Better Protection 

If your pet loves to go on adventures or spend time with other animals, they should have thorough vaccine protection to help keep them safe and healthy. "Socialization is one of the best ways you can enrich your pet’s life. And the more active and outgoing your dog is, the more comprehensive their vaccines should be," says Dr. Clay Hellner, Chief Veterinary Officer at Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care." Some vaccines, like rabies, may be required by law, while others are essential based on your dog's lifestyle." 

The vaccination needs of active dogs depend on several key factors: where they live, where they spend their time, how often they interact with other animals, and their overall risk level. For example, a dog who spends time with other pets, goes hiking, visits pet boarding or day care facilities, or takes regular trips to the groomer will benefit from broad vaccine protection. Additionally, pet parents with brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds like Pugs or French Bulldogs need to consider additional vaccines for respiratory illnesses. 

"For active, social dogs, vaccines that might be optional for other pets become just as crucial as core vaccines," says Dr. Hellner. "The best way to help protect your pet from a potentially life-threatening disease is to ensure they're vaccinated against it, so always consult your veterinarian about your dog's specific needs!" 

In the next section, we'll dig a little deeper into the specific kinds of vaccines for dogs and cats. Take your time to consider your pet's lifestyle and consult your veterinarian to decide what's best for them.  

 

*Pet Paradise's minimum vaccine requirements are subject to change at any time. 

Updated on 12/16/2025