Canine distemper is a viral disease that can have severe and potentially fatal consequences for dogs. It affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, often leading to long-term neurological damage or death. Despite advances in veterinary care and the availability of vaccines, canine distemper remains a significant threat to unvaccinated dogs and puppies.  

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine distemper is caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), which is part of the paramyxovirus family. It is highly contagious and can spread through airborne transmission, making it easy for infected dogs to pass the virus to others. CDV can be found in an infected dog’s saliva, nasal discharge, urine, and faeces. Once a dog contracts the virus, it typically takes 1-2 weeks for symptoms to appear.

Distemper is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple body systems. The virus primarily attacks the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, but it can also damage the brain and spinal cord. Puppies under six months of age and unvaccinated adult dogs are at the highest risk of contracting and succumbing to the disease.

How Does Canine Distemper Spread?

Canine distemper spreads primarily through direct contact with respiratory secretions like saliva, nasal discharge, and sneezing. It can also be transmitted indirectly via contaminated surfaces, objects, or shared food and water bowls. Dogs in close contact with infected animals, such as in shelters, boarding facilities, or dog parks, are particularly at risk.

The virus can survive in the environment for a short period, but it is susceptible to common disinfectants. However, infected dogs can shed the virus for weeks, even before they show symptoms, making it challenging to isolate and control the spread.

Signs and Symptoms of Canine Distemper:

The symptoms of canine distemper usually appear in stages, with respiratory signs occurring first, followed by gastrointestinal symptoms and, in some cases, neurological problems. The progression of the disease can vary depending on the age and overall health of the dog.

1. Respiratory Symptoms (Early Stages)

• Fever: Often the first noticeable sign, followed by a loss of appetite.
• Nasal and ocular discharge: Watery, then thickens to mucous-like discharge from the eyes and nose.
• Coughing and sneezing: As the virus attacks the respiratory system, coughing and sneezing become common.
• Lethargy: Affected dogs typically appear tired and less active.

2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

As the virus spreads, it often affects the gastrointestinal system, leading to:

• Vomiting: Often accompanied by nausea and general discomfort.
• Diarrhea: Dogs may develop watery or bloody diarrhea as the virus damages the intestines.
• Dehydration: Due to the loss of fluids from vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration becomes a critical concern.

3. Neurological Symptoms (Later Stages)

One of the most concerning aspects of canine distemper is its ability to attack the nervous system. This can result in:

• Seizures: Infected dogs may experience frequent seizures.
• Muscle twitches and spasms: Dogs may have uncontrollable muscle movements, affecting their ability to walk or stand.
• Ataxia: Lack of coordination, leading to difficulty in walking or maintaining balance.
• Head tilt, circling, and other abnormal behaviors: As the virus progresses, affected dogs may exhibit strange movements and confusion.
• Hard Pad Disease: Some dogs develop thickened, hardened paw pads, a classic sign of advanced distemper.

4. Fatalities and Long-Term Effects

In severe cases, particularly with neurological involvement, distemper can be fatal. Even dogs that survive the initial infection may face lasting damage, such as permanent brain damage, seizures, or other neurological issues.

Diagnosis of Canine Distemper:

Diagnosing canine distemper is primarily based on a combination of clinical signs and laboratory tests. If a veterinarian suspects distemper, they may perform the following:

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test: This test detects the presence of the virus in blood, urine, or other bodily fluids.
• Serology: Blood tests that measure the dog’s antibody response to the virus, though this may not always be reliable in the early stages of the disease.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): A blood test that can reveal abnormal levels of white blood cells, indicating infection.
• Chest X-rays or Ultrasound: Imaging may be used to assess lung damage or complications like pneumonia, which can arise in distemper cases.
• Neurological Evaluation: If the dog exhibits neurological symptoms, imaging or additional diagnostic testing may be required to assess brain damage.

Treatment for Canine Distemper:

There is no cure for canine distemper, and treatment focuses on supporting the dog’s immune system and alleviating symptoms. The earlier the disease is detected and treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery. Treatment options include:

• Hospitalization: In severe cases, affected dogs may need to be hospitalized for supportive care, including intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and electrolytes.
• Antibiotics: These are prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections that can arise due to the weakened immune system.
• Anticonvulsants: Dogs experiencing seizures may require medication to control them.
• Nutritional Support: If the dog is unable to eat, feeding tubes or special nutrition may be necessary to prevent malnutrition and dehydration.
• Anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medications: To control gastrointestinal symptoms and prevent dehydration.

Prevention of Canine Distemper:

The most effective way to prevent canine distemper is through vaccination. The distemper vaccine is usually given as part of a combination vaccine (DHPP), which also protects against parvovirus, hepatitis, and parainfluenza. Puppies should start receiving their vaccination series at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until they are 16-20 weeks old. Adult dogs should receive periodic booster shots to maintain immunity.

In addition to vaccination, other preventive measures include:

• Avoiding exposure: Keep unvaccinated puppies and at-risk dogs away from areas where distemper is known to be present, such as dog parks or kennels.
• Hygiene and disinfection: Regularly disinfect areas where dogs frequent, especially in shelters or multi-dog households.

Conclusion:

Canine distemper is a dangerous, highly contagious disease that can have severe, even fatal consequences. While the virus remains a significant threat, especially to unvaccinated puppies, early detection and supportive care can increase a dog’s chances of recovery. The best defense against distemper is prevention through vaccination, which is essential to keeping dogs safe from this deadly virus. Pet owners should ensure that their dogs are fully vaccinated and take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to the disease.