Distemper

The American Veterinary Medical Association considers canine distemper the single greatest disease threat to the world’s dog population. Canine distemper virus is fatal to 80% of the puppies and 50% of the adult dogs that contract it.

•        Symptoms

o       congested lungs

o       nasal discharge

o       gunky eyes

o       coughing

o       weight loss

o       vomiting

o       diarrhea

o       As the disease progresses, it attacks the nervous system, often causing partial or complete paralysis & seizures

•        Transmitted

o       through the air

o       by direct contact with urine

o       by direct contact with feces

o       mucus secretions from infected dogs

o       contact with kennels, bedding, toys, etc. that may hold the virus

•        Once contracted

o       Once the dog is infected, there is no cure.

o       The disease must run its course.

o       Dogs that recover from distemper may develop hardened foot pads, nose leathers, and/or vision/nervous system problems throughout their lives.

•        Prevention

o       Distemper is only prevented by vaccination.

o       According to AVMA, some veterinary medical scientists estimate that practically every dog that lives to be a year old has had contact with the virus at some time.

o       Distemper is so prevalent and the signs so varied that any sick young dog should be taken to a veterinarian for a definite diagnosis.

o       Most distemper cases appear in dogs less than 6 months of age and in old dogs that have not been routinely vaccinated.