Vets Somerset - What is Distemper?

Distemper is a very contagious disease that is spread by contact with an infected dog. It's also found in other animal species such as ferrets, skunks and even seals. Here are some common questions and answers on the subject of distemper that you may find useful.

How is distemper spread?

Distemper is a virus that can be transmitted from dog to dog via contact. For example, coughing can spread the disease and the mucus from the nose is also heavily infected.

What are the symptoms of distemper?

The main symptoms include:

•          Fever

•          Loss of appetite

•          Thick yellow discharge from the eyes and nose

•          Coughing

•          Seizures

Lots of other illnesses can cause these symptoms in dogs, but the symptoms are not usually present all at the same time, as they are with distemper. A blood test will help your vet to know for sure.

Vets Somerset - What can be done to treat it?

Unfortunately antibiotics don't work on viral infections, but they are often still needed because the virus can cause secondary bacterial infections to develop. Fluids might be given to your dog through a drip, as well as cough suppressants and drugs to treat seizures. Some new antivirals that are used on humans have recently been tried on dogs with some success. You might find that your dog also needs some intensive nursing during this time.

Can dogs make a complete recovery from distemper?

Usually they will make a full recovery, but some dogs are left with recurring seizures or nervous twitches afterwards.

How can I stop my dog from catching distemper?

Luckily there is a vaccine available, which is usually given to puppies as a series of injections. A dog should get follow up vaccinations about every three years and maybe more often in areas where the disease is more common. Because of these vaccines, the disease is now at very low levels in the UK. However, your dog might still be at risk of catching it from wild animals such as skunks, ferrets, foxes and seals. Stray dogs can also be carriers of the disease, so try to minimise contact with them.

Click Vets North Somerset for more information about Distemper:

http://wellpets.co.uk/worle/