Distemper is a highly contagious virus that dogs can contract from other dogs and from wildlife like raccoons and skunks and ferrets. It is often fatal in dogs that have not been vaccinated. Distemper targets multiple different organ systems, starting in the throat/tonsils and lymph nodes. Within 7 days it can spread to affect the gastrointestinal tract, liver and spleen. It will destroy the cells of the skin, blood vessels, and urinary tract. The final stages involve destruction of the brain and nervous system.
How is Distemper Transmitted?
It is transmitted mainly by direct contact with an infected animal. It can also be spread
through short distances in fluids expelled during coughing and sneezing.
Clinical Signs of Distemper:
There are two phase of the virus. In the initial stages the following can be seen:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Coughing
Yellow discharge from the nose and eyes
Fever
In the second phase, neurological signs are often noted.
Head tilt
Seizures
Convulsions
Muscle twitching
Circling
How is Distemper Treated?
There is no cure for Distemper. Treatments administered are aimed at treating the symptoms like anti-nausea medications, anti-diarrheals, antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections, and anti-convulsants. Dogs are often hospitalized with intravenous (IV) fluids because of the increased fluid losses and lack of appetite.
How can you protect your dog from Distemper virus?
Luckily there is a very effective vaccination for Distemper. The Distemper virus vaccination is considered a "Core" vaccination by the American Animal Hospital Association, which means all dogs should be vaccinated for it. All puppies should be vaccinated at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 16 weeks of age. Adult dogs are then vaccinated every 1 to 3 years, depending on the vaccination that is used.
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