What Risks Could Your Pet Face This Late Summer Without Vaccines? From Rabies to Distemper and Leptospirosis

Late summer might feel relaxed, but it can quietly raise the chance of infectious disease for pets—especially those that are not up to date on vaccinations. Warmer weather, outdoor play, and encounters with wildlife or other animals create opportunities for viruses and bacteria to spread. At Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic, our goal is to help you understand which vaccine-preventable threats are most relevant at this time of year and what you can do to protect your pet.

Why Late Summer Is a Critical Time for Pet Immunizations

Outdoor activity typically increases in late summer. Consequently, pets visit dog parks, groomers, or boarding facilities more often, and many households spend extra time near lakes, trails, and neighbourhood green spaces. For these reasons, exposure risk rises. Moreover, some pathogens thrive in warm, humid conditions. That combination means staying current on vaccinations is a practical, effective step to keep your pet—and your family—safe.

Rabies — A Fatal Yet Preventable Threat

Why it matters: Rabies is a deadly zoonotic disease (it can pass from animals to humans) and is most commonly transmitted through bites from infected wildlife such as bats, raccoons, and skunks. Because rabies is typically fatal once clinical signs appear, vaccination is essential and often required by law.

What you can do: Ensure your pet’s rabies vaccine is current. If your pet has had a bite, contact us or local public health immediately. For official public-health guidance, see the Government of Canada’s rabies resource.

Distemper — A Highly Contagious Viral Disease

Why it matters: Canine distemper is caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It spreads through airborne exposure (sneezes, coughs) and direct contact with infected animals. There is no specific cure for distemper, so prevention through the DHPP/DA2PP vaccine is vital.

Who’s most at risk: Puppies, unvaccinated dogs, and animals that interact with wildlife or many other dogs (e.g., daycares, shelters).

Leptospirosis — A Waterborne and Soilborne Danger

Why it matters: Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria that live in water or soil contaminated with infected urine. Pets can pick it up by drinking or swimming in contaminated water, or even running through puddles. The disease can damage the kidneys and liver, and it’s potentially transmissible to humans.

Prevention: Vaccination reduces risk, and avoiding stagnant or unknown water sources lowers exposure. For detailed public-health information, review the CDC guidance on leptospirosis.

Other Vaccine-Preventable Diseases to Keep in Mind

Beyond rabies, distemper, and leptospirosis, make sure your pet’s routine vaccinations are up to date for these common threats:

• Parvovirus: A highly contagious intestinal virus, often severe or fatal in puppies.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Common in dogs that board, attend daycare, or visit groomers.
• FVRCP for cats: Protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.

Depending on lifestyle and travel, your veterinarian might also recommend vaccines such as canine influenza or Lyme disease protection. Importantly, fleas and ticks are NOT prevented by vaccines—those require parasite control products and environmental measures.

How Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic Can Help

Our team provides personalized vaccination schedules based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and exposure risk. We proudly serve Chilliwack and neighbouring communities including Cultus Lake, Rosedale, Sardis, and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether your pet is due, book a consult or stop by to review records.

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Diseases like rabies, distemper, and leptospirosis can be devastating to pets and people alike—but they are largely preventable through vaccination and informed choices. In late summer, when outdoor exposure increases, a timely vaccine check can make a significant difference. If your pet’s vaccinations are overdue or you have questions about what they need, please contact Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic—we’re here to help keep your pets healthy year-round.

Schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment today and give them the protection they deserve.