How many of us really know what the disease "distemper" is? We all have our dogs vaccinated for it, but actually understanding it and knowing what to look for, isn't something that's discussed much. I found this article in the Pet Health Library and wanted to share it because it seems to me that knowing what distemper is, including the symptoms and the treatment, is important.
After all, it's a contagious disease.
In the "Distemper" article, they start right off educating pet owners on how dogs get the virus: "Susceptible dogs are infected by inhaling the Distemper virus, which is found in secretions and feces from infected dogs. Puppies under six months of age and unvaccinated dogs are most vulnerable." That's key, isn't it? The "unvaccinated dogs" being most at risk, part. Always get your dog vaccinated.
Some signs to watch for are: loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, deydration, muscle twitching, seizures and more. Naturally, all of these symptoms could be a number of other problems, also, which indicates a need to get your dog to the vet if you see them. Especially if they go on for more than a few hours. I would at least call the vet's office and talk to someone, maybe a veterinary technician, to see if an immediate visit is necessary.
The article explains treatment and indicates that there is no specific "treatment that kills the virus" but your dog will be hospitalized and treated for the secondary issues. I advise a visit to the Pet Health Library to read more on this terrible disease.
And, of course, I strongly advise vaccinating your dog or puppy. Puppies can begin their vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age. Vaccinations are given every 3-4 weeks until the puppy is 16 weeks old. After that, boosters are advised every 1-3 years, depending on the type vaccination used. With adult dogs that haven't been vaccinated (that confuses me, but I guess there are some out there), may only need to be vaccinated once at first, with repeat vaccinations every 1-3 years.
I'll close with this statement, "It's especially important for female dogs intended for breeding to be current on vaccinations. This allows them to provide immunity that protects their puppies until they are old enough to receive vaccinations."
I guess the most important message here is: get your dog's vaccinations early, and always discuss the symptoms mentioned here with your veterinarian - sooner than later.
