Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It is considered to be the single greatest threat to the dog population throughout the world. Though canine distemper virus can infect dogs of any age, it is more common in younger dogs and puppies. It is a very serious infection, in fact the death rate among puppies is as high as 80%. Even in cases where death does not occur, a dog's health is often permanently impaired, causing irreparable damage to the nervous system, the sense of smell, hearing or sight, as well as partial or total paralysis. Further, other diseases, particularly pneumonia, can result.
Canine distemper is not transmissible to humans. It can occur wherever there are dogs and is most often transmitted through contact with respiratory secretions, though it can also be transmitted through the urine and fecal matter of infected dogs. Unfortunately, the signs of canine distemper are often mild and may go unrecognized, thereby delaying treatment. Symptoms may be similar to a severe cold and include fever, squinting, congestion, discharge of pus from the eyes, coughing, nasal discharge, and listlessness. Other symptoms may include lack of appetite, weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea. In the later stages, the nervous system is attacked and can lead to partial or complete paralysis and twitching. Some dogs may also develop bronchitis, pneumonia, and severe inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The safest protection against canine distemper is vaccination. |
