Canine distemper affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous system of a canine. It is a contagious, incurable, often fatal, multi-systemic viral disease caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV).
Canine distemper occurs worldwide, however, widespread canine vaccination programs for puppies have had startling effect on the incidence of canine distemper. The canine distemper virus infects young canines between 3 and 6 months old and puppies this age often die. Non-immunized older dogs that have contact with other non-immunized dogs or wild carnivores are at great risk of developing canine distemper through the transmission of airborne viral particles that they breath in and other bodily secretions and excretions. With canine distemper, dogs in recovery may continue to shed the virus for several weeks after symptoms disappear, but they no longer shed the virus once they are fully recovered. The virus spreads rapidly to the lymphoid organs, the blood and then to the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital and central nervous systems. Damage done by the distemper virus causes symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite and mildly inflamed eyes with discharge. Diarrhea, pneumonia, runny nose and vomiting may also occur. Ultimately the dog succumbs to neurological complications. Canine distemper can be prevented by having the canine vaccinated annually.Canine distemper vaccines (CDV's) even work well in animals that have already been exposed to the virus, if it is administered within 4 days of exposure. Exposure to CDV via vaccination can give long lasting, but not permanent immunity. Dogs should receive ongoing vaccinations to ensure protection. Canine distemper vaccines come in several different types, each with advantages and disadvantages. Canine owners should discuss the various options with their veterinarians. Canine distemper antibodies usually are passed on to the puppy from the mother at birth. This prevents the puppy from becoming infected if exposed to the virus. Canines begin to lose their material protection between 6 and 12 weeks of age, which is when they should be vaccinated. Two to three vaccinations should be administered during this period. To purchase canine distemper vaccine, visit our pet health link. Other unique online pet shopping & products are available at the links below.
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