Canine Distemper in dogs
Distemper is a very common viral infection seen in young, unvaccinated or immune-compromised dogs. It can strike any dog of any sex or any breed. Incidence of this disease has been significantly decreased due to awareness among pet owners and regular vaccination of dogs. Yet, it is one of the most dangerous diseases because no treatment is available, and it always results in death if the dog is infected.
Canine distemper can cause damage to the nervous system, leaving the dog with partial or total paralysis. It may affect the respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological systems in the body. An Infected dog may show the following symptoms:
- Fever for 3 to 4 days then temperature is normal up to 11 to 12 days and again gets fever after the 12th day due to secondary bacterial infection
- Nasal discharge
- Signs of pneumonia
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Inflammation of the retina of the eye leading to blindness
- Involuntary eye movement
- Hard pads
- Head becomes persistently turned to one side
- Blisters on the side of abdomen or Inner thigh may be considered as an important sign in diagnosing canine distemper
Since prevention is always better than cure, vaccination of dogs should be done between 6 to 8 weeks of age and booster dose should be administered after 21 days of primary vaccine following it up with regular annual vaccination.
