Introduction
Canine distemper, a disease that strikes fear into the hearts of pet owners, is a serious and potentially deadly virus that affects our beloved canine companions. As a pet science blog author, I’ve had the opportunity to delve deep into the subject, combining both personal experiences and scientific facts to provide a comprehensive understanding of this disease. In this article, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about canine distemper, from its symptoms and risks to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
What is Canine Distemper?
Canine distemper is a paramyxovirus, closely related to the virus that causes measles in humans. It can affect a wide range of organs in dogs, including the skin, brain, eyes, intestinal, and respiratory tracts. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the air via coughing from infected animals or through body secretions such as urine.
Symptoms of Canine Distemper
Distemper can manifest in various ways, affecting multiple systems of the body. Common symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, coughing, diarrhea, vomiting, fever that may come and go, and seizures. Mildly affected dogs may only exhibit coughing, which can sometimes be mistaken for “kennel cough.” In more severe cases, dogs may develop pneumonia. Puppies that recover from distemper may suffer from severe tooth enamel damage, and their noses and foot pads may become thickened, earning the nickname “hardpad disease.”
Personal Experience
I recall a time when my own dog, a lively and energetic pup, started showing signs of distemper. The coughing, fever, and lethargy were alarming, and it was a stark reminder of the importance of early detection and intervention.
Risks Associated with Canine Distemper
Distemper is a serious threat that can spread rapidly through a kennel, especially if unvaccinated dogs are present. While not all dogs will succumb to the disease, a significant number may, with death rates as high as 75%. It’s a common misconception that older dogs have natural immunity, but this is not always the case. Survivors may suffer permanent damage to their vision and nervous system, and puppies may have severely mottled teeth due to enamel abnormalities.
Diagnosis of Canine Distemper
Diagnosing canine distemper involves several methods. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test can be performed on various samples, including urine, cerebrospinal fluid, blood, and post-mortem tissues. Skin biopsies, particularly of the foot pads, can also be examined for the presence of the virus. Blood samples may show characteristic changes known as “canine distemper inclusion bodies.” However, distinguishing between infection and vaccination effects can be challenging with some diagnostic tests, such as antibody tests.
Treatment and Prevention of Canine Distemper
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for canine distemper. Therapy is largely supportive, with intravenous fluids administered to prevent dehydration and anti-seizure medications used if neurologic signs develop.
Prevention, however, is key, and excellent vaccines have been developed to protect dogs from this deadly disease. These vaccines have been in use for many years and have significantly reduced the frequency of canine distemper. It’s important to note that many older dogs do not develop lifelong immunity, so vaccinations should be boostered throughout the animal’s life. Dogs diagnosed with or suspected of having distemper should be quarantined to prevent the spread of the virus.
Conclusion
Canine distemper is a grave threat to our furry friends, but with proper understanding, early detection, and vaccination, we can protect our dogs from this devastating disease. As a pet owner and a pet science enthusiast, it’s our responsibility to stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure the health and well-being of our beloved companions.
Article by: Race Foster, DVM