Dog Health
Issues - Description of Distemper
Distemper is an acute, highly contagious, viral disease which is
transmitted through the air or via body secretions. Canine
distemper virus is fatal to 80 percent of the puppies and 50
percent of the adult dogs that contract it. Canine
distemper is a paramyxovirus - a member of the family of
single-stranded RNA viruses such as the mumps and measles. The
canine strain of the virus can affect a wide range of organs
including the eyes, skin, brain and the intestinal and respiratory
tracts.
Dog Health
Problems - Symptoms of Distemper
Distemper is marked by nasal and eye discharge, twitching,
coughing, diarrhea, vomiting and seizures. Food is often refused.
The virus produces abnormalities of the puppys developing enamel
and the foot pads may become thickened hence the alternative
name of hard pad.
Dog Health
Questions - Dogs susceptible to Distemper
Dogs of any age can be affected however the majority are young
puppies. The mortality rate is believed to be as high as 80% - the
deaths predominately occurring in puppies or old dogs.
Distemper
Vaccinations
It is imperative that all dogs are given Distemper Vaccinations
starting during the first few weeks of a puppies life. The
Distemper Vaccinations should then be given yearly for life to
prevent the occurrence of this dangerous canine disease.
Dog Health
Information - Treatment of Distemper
There is no specific treatment for canine distemper which is why
it is so imperative to reduce the frequency and spread of the
disease through a regular program of vaccinations.
Dog Health
Advice
We hope that the canine health information and dog health advice
has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are
in doubt about your Dog's Health please consult your Canine Health
Specialist.
Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems
The sole purpose of the Online
Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems is as a reference
manual to provide useful information to dog and puppy owners. It
is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat sick dogs or as a
substitute for obtaining professional veterinary advice. Please
remember that if you are in any doubt about your Dog's Health
please consult your Canine Veterinary Specialist immediately.
