Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a common dog disease that can be prevented by vaccinations. Over fifty percent of the dogs that have not been immunized for distemper die if they contract the disease. Puppies are especially in danger of dying from canine distemper. The loss of life due to canine distemper is totally unnecessary since it is preventable through vaccinations. Dogs that have frequent contact with other dogs should receive regular boosters for canine distemper.

The cause of canine distemper is a virus. Distemper is highly contagious. This viral infection can be acquired through the air or direct contact with contaminated secretions, urine, feces, bedding, or other surfaces. Kennels can put all of the dogs at high risk if one of the dogs becomes infected.

Early signs of distemper infection include changes in the eyes. The eyes may have a discharge and the dog may squint. Other symptoms of distemper include diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, seizures, and nasal discharge. Distemper may harden the dog’s pads of its paws. The lungs are often affected by distemper. Early in the disease, the dog may develop a cough or lung congestion. Eventually, the dog is likely to experience more respiratory problems such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

A veterinarian will examine the dog. Diagnosing distemper is usually done with blood tests. A veterinarian may take a sample of cerebral spinal fluid to be evaluated. Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment for distemper is not easy. Viral infections like canine distemper are not curable with medication.

For canine distemper treatment, medications may be used to alleviate the symptoms of the disease. The veterinarian may administer IV fluids to treat dehydration. This type of supportive treatment does not cure the illness, but helps the dog’s body to be able to fight the viral infection.

Even if the dog recovers from distemper, there may be lasting effects. The permanent damage from canine distemper can be vision problems or problems with the dog’s nervous system. Puppies who survive distemper infections could have discolorations of their teeth. The foot pads of dogs and their nose leathers may remain hardened after recovery from distemper.