Canine Distemper
Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian
Understanding Canine Distemper in Dogs
Canine distemper is a severe and highly contagious disease caused by a virus that affects dogs, primarily unvaccinated puppies. The virus targets the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems and other areas of the body. While canine distemper is most commonly found in dogs, they can transmit the virus to other animals, such as ferrets.
Fortunately, this dangerous disease can be prevented through vaccination. Regular vaccinations are crucial to prevent unnecessary pain and death and stop the spread of the virus to other animals.
The story of Tommy
Tommy, a 2.5-month-old puppy, came into the clinic with a runny nose and eye discharge. His owner mentioned that Tommy seemed less energetic and less interested in food. Tests revealed a high fever, a drop in white blood cell count, and signs of dehydration. Since Tommy was not yet vaccinated, the veterinarian suspected canine distemper. Tommy began receiving supportive treatment immediately while confirmatory tests were sent to the lab. The results confirmed a positive diagnosis of canine distemper. For nearly two weeks, Tommy was hospitalized, battling fever, pneumonia, and diarrhea. Fortunately, he showed gradual improvement and started regaining his appetite. Finally, Tommy was released and continuously monitored to ensure no neurological symptoms developed.
Causes of Canine Distemper: Uncovering Triggers
- Airborne exposure: This virus is spread when an infected animal sneezes or coughs, releasing droplets into the air. During the acute stage, all bodily fluids are contagious. Some dogs will remain infectious for several months, even after clinical recovery.
- Direct contact: Direct contact with an infected animal can spread the disease.
- Contaminated objects: While the canine distemper virus doesn’t survive long on external surfaces, contaminated objects such as food and water bowls can facilitate transmission.
Recognizing Canine Distemper: Signs and Symptoms
- Respiratory issues: Symptoms include coughing and difficulty breathing.
- Discharge: Eye and nose discharge, often green-tinged.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Infected animals often experience vomiting, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite.
- Neurological problems: The disease can cause seizures, muscle cramps, involuntary movements, coordination issues, partial to complete paralysis, and more. These symptoms may appear at a later stage of the disease, with or without other symptoms.
- Skin-related symptoms: A common symptom is hyperkeratosis, or thickening of the paw pads. It can also involve small pus-filled pimples on the skin.
- Damage to tooth enamel: Typically appears in puppies during the later stages of the disease, leading to stained, uneven teeth.
Canine Distemper Diagnosis: How it's Identified
Initial diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms discovered during the physical examination and the dog’s vaccination history. Diagnosis may be challenging and often requires multiple tests, including:
- Blood tests: A white blood cell count drop can indicate a viral infection. While this result is not exclusive to canine distemper, it can support clinical suspicion.
- Serological tests: These tests measure antibodies in the blood. However, vaccine-induced antibodies can lead to a positive result even if the dog is not currently infected. Testing cerebrospinal fluid (under anesthesia) is more accurate.
- PCR tests: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests can identify the virus in the dog’s blood or other bodily fluids, providing a definitive diagnosis.
- Histopathology: While not commonly used, histopathology may involve a skin biopsy from thickened paw pads. Pathology experts examine this sample under a microscope to identify relevant indicators of the disease.
Treating Canine Distemper: Options and Approaches
No treatment can cure canine distemper, so we focus on supportive care to prevent secondary infections, minimize complications, and support the dog’s immune system and overall well-being.
- Fluids and electrolytes: An intravenous infusion to treat dehydration and possible electrolyte imbalance.
- Antibiotics: To prevent secondary infections caused due to the weakened immune system.
- Supportive environment: Creating a comfortable, pleasant environment for the dog.
Canine Distemper: Surprising Facts
The vaccine against the distemper virus is included in the core vaccinations recommended for all dogs, preventing pain and death and protecting dogs and other animals everywhere.
Around 50% of the adult dogs infected with this virus will not survive. Mortality rates rise to around 80% in puppies.
While some dogs who survive canine distemper develop a lifelong immunity against the disease, they may also suffer permanent neurological damage.
Vet's Tip: Dealing with Canine Distemper
Always keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date to protect against canine distemper, starting at the earliest age. Pay close attention to any signs of illness and consult your veterinarian if you suspect exposure while keeping your dog away from other animals.
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Latest in Research and Treatments
Researchers have successfully isolated the “docking protein” in the canine distemper virus at the molecular level for the first time. This achievement hopes to pave the way for the development of new treatments.
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