What is a Canine Distemper?

About Canine Distemper:

• It is a contagious and serious disease caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV).
• The virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of dogs.
• All dogs are at risk of canine distemper. Those at particular risk include puppies younger than four months and dogs that have not been vaccinated against CDV.
• In addition to dogs, CDV can infect ferrets as well as a wide range of other mammals, especially carnivores.
  • These include several wildlife species such as wild canines (e.g., foxes and wolves), raccoons, and skunks. Cats also may become infected but are unlikely to get sick.
• Transmission:
• • It is spread through direct contact or airborne exposure.
  • The virus does not last long in the environment and can be destroyed by most disinfectants. 
  • However, the distemper-infected dogs can shed the virus for up to several months, putting dogs around them at risk.
• Symptoms:
  • Once a dog is infected, the virus quickly spreads throughout the entire body and significantly weakens the immune system, leaving them susceptible to secondary infections.
  • The skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), and central nervous systems can all be affected.
  • Coughing is the most common symptom. They usually develop fever and discharge from the eyes and/or nose.
  • The disease can also cause disorientation, tremors, twitches, and seizures.
• Treatment:
  • There is no cure, and no antiviral drugs have been approved to combat the infection. 
  • The best way to prevent canine distemper is through vaccination.