Distemper in dogs is a serious contagious disease that has caused many fatalities worldwide. It is caused by a virus called canine distemper, which belongs to the paramyxovirus group. In the same group belongs the virus that causes measles in humans.
This
disease affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous
systems. It is transmitted through contact with respiratory secretions, fecal
material, and urine of infected dogs. It can also be passed on through objects
contaminated by the virus. Unvaccinated dogs especially at 6 to 12 weeks of age
are at highest risk of this viral infection.
The
initial signs usually appear six to nine days after infection. At first, a dog
will have a fever spike that can reach up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit or 40.5
degrees Celsius. A second fever spike will then be accompanied by other signs
like restlessness, loss of appetite, and watery discharge from nose and eyes.
After
a few days, the watery discharge becomes thick and sticky. At this stage, there
may be other signs like vomiting, diarrhea, dry cough, and pus blisters on the
abdomen. The ill dog typically gets better within one to two weeks but then
goes on a relapse. By this time, bacterial invasion will have occurred, causing
gastrointestinal and respiratory complications.
The
condition worsens as the illness progresses two to three weeks after exposure.
Head shaking, chewing movements of the jaw, slobbering, and seizures similar to
epilepsy are commonly seen. Some dogs develop distemper myoclonus, which is a
condition that involves rhythmic muscle contractions that affects most body
parts especially the head. The involuntary jerking is usually accompanied by
pain.
Unfortunately,
there is no cure for distemper in dogs. However, treatment options are
available to alleviate symptoms and prevent new infections. Some examples
include:
- Antibiotics to prevent pneumonia
- IV fluids to prevent dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting
- Anti-seizure medications
- Steroids for severe seizures
