Rise in Pet Illnesses Linked to Down Economy
By: Gina Benitez and Stetson Samuel
Updated: February 17, 2012
One local veterinarian believes recent outbreaks of parvo and canine distemper in Big Country dogs, is a direct result of the down economy.
Vaccinations have been down the last couple of years. Brad Banner, a veterinarian at the Merkel Veterinary Clinc says, 2011 was the lowest he's seen. About 25 percent lower than average.
He says many people look at vaccinations for their pet as an optional expense because they may not have as much disposable income.
"If there's a lot of vaccinated animals out there, there's more protection for everybody's animals. But when the number of vaccinated animals go down, there's more exposure," said Banner.
He says fewer people are fixing their animals, leading to more strays and another contributing factor to the spreading of disease.
Vaccinations have been down the last couple of years. Brad Banner, a veterinarian at the Merkel Veterinary Clinc says, 2011 was the lowest he's seen. About 25 percent lower than average.
He says many people look at vaccinations for their pet as an optional expense because they may not have as much disposable income.
"If there's a lot of vaccinated animals out there, there's more protection for everybody's animals. But when the number of vaccinated animals go down, there's more exposure," said Banner.
He says fewer people are fixing their animals, leading to more strays and another contributing factor to the spreading of disease.
