I am sure we all want to protect our pets from disease and one common disease, called Canine Distemper is a worldwide problem and young puppies, in particular are the most susceptible and the most likely to die from the disease.
It is possible for humans to have a sub-clinical CDV infection although anyone who has had an anti measles vaccination, will be immunized as the two diseases are related.
Dog Distemper Transmission
The disease can be spread by coming into contact with the bodily secretions and nasal fluid from an infected animal but most commonly ingestion via airborne particles from infected animals i.e. breathing in the particles.
How can it be prevented?
All dogs and all breeds are at risk from Canine Distemper with older dogs who have not been vaccinated and particularly puppies being most at risk because their immune systems are still immature. There is no cure for CDV, prevention is the only viable solution and since development of the vaccine in the early 1960′s there has been a substantial reduction in the number of fatalities, attributed to this disease. At one time Canine Distemper was the highest reported cause of death in domestic dogs.
Vaccination is the way to protect your dog and until your pet has been vaccinated, be careful where you take him. Since airborne ingestion is the most common form of infection, be especially aware in parks, dog areas, kennels, and grooming premises. Try to avoid exposing your dog to any animals that you are unfamiliar with, including wild animals as it is often the wild animal population that is attributed for the sporadic outbreaks of the disease. The Canine Distemper virus (paramyxovirus) also occurs in Ferrets, Foxes, Mink, and other carnivores.
Puppies, being particularly at risk can receive vaccination from 6 weeks and should be re-vaccinated every 3-4 weeks until 16 months old. Newborn pups prior to vaccination need to be kept away from other dogs and areas of possible contamination. Adult dogs should continue be vaccinated every year.
Speak with your vet about local issues and problems that can affect your pet.
Look out for Distemper in Dogs
Following ingestion, infections are replicated in the lymph nodes although dogs can appear to be quite normal for several days following the actual contamination and initial Distemper symptoms may include
• Loss of appetite
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Diarrhea
• Cough
• Labored breathing
• Sore throat.
• Vomiting
The Treatment
There is no cure for actual Canine Distemper Disease but supportive treatments include controlling the spread and the severity of secondary ailments like vomiting, diarrhea, and fluid discharge.
Providing a warm and draft free environment with good nursing care will make the dog as secure and comfortable as possible.
Monitor for dehydration
The vet will probably use antibiotics and drugs to control any nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pneumonia, twitching and spasm.
Recovery
Following recovery, an infected animal can still be a carrier and needs to be quarantined for a minimum period of 2 weeks to reduce the possibility of contaminating and infecting other animals.
Conclusion
Prevention and vaccination is the best option of all.
If during the course of treatment or convalescence the dog appears to respond well, you must avoid the temptation of allowing the animal outside, even on what might seem a mild day, as the colder air and ground can exacerbate its respiratory problems with possible dire consequences. This information was compiled for your interest because it is an extremely serious illness, and if you suspect Distemper in your dog you should consult with your Vet Practice immediately for help and treatment.
About the Author
Canine distemper – articles and information on the canine distemper cause and transmission and canine distemper treatment.
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Anyone have any opinions on Advantage Multi?
Advantage MultiTM for Dogs (imidacloprid + moxidectin)
Topical Solution
Advantage Multi for Dogs combines 100 percent prevention for heartworm disease, as shown in clinical trials, with the flea control of Advantage®, and the treatment and control of intestinal worms (hookworms, roundworms and whipworms) – all in one, convenient, monthly topical solution.
Thanks…for all your opinions
i lump it in the same boat with revolution. wont use it ever! 100% effective? nothing is 100% effective. maybe in their clinical trials with people who actually know how to apply the drug correctly and in a controlled environment where the dog wont rub the medication off, but out in the real world there is human error of not applying it correctly, not doing it at the exact same time every month, dogs that roll after you apply it, or another animal licking it off, etc. the what ifs are too great imo to use a topical that controls heartworm disease, plus i dont want to use a drug that gets absorped into my dogs system that is essentially a pesticide.
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