Canine Distemper

What is Canine Distemper ?
 Canine Distemper is a highly contagious, viral systemic disease of dogs which is present almost everywhere in the world.

What causes Canine Distemper ?
Canine distemper is caused by a virus (paramyxovirus) closely related to measles.

Hyperkeratinization of Foot pads

How do I know if my dog has Canine Distemper ?

If your dog is not vaccinated against canine distemper and live in a high risk area, you should be on the watchout.
Early symptoms include lack of interest to food, diarrhea, watery or purulent discharge from nose and eye, weakness etc.
There will be a rise in temperature initially, usually 3-6 days after infection accompanied by anorexia (lack of appetite). The fever subsides for several days before a second fever occurs, which lasts <1 wk. This may be accompanied by serous nasal discharge, mucopurulent ocular discharge and anorexia. Gastro-intestinal ( diarrhea, vomiting) and respiratory signs may follow.




Are there any specific symptoms for this disease ?

It is very difficult to point out a specific symptom, but in the late stage of the disease Hyperkeratosis of the footpads (“hardpad” disease) and epithelium of the nasal plane may be seen. Puppies suffering from the disease may show appereance of pustules in the ventral abdomen..Neurologic signs are frequently seen in those dogs with hyperkeratosis. Nervous signs may include the following: 

Pustules in the Ventral Abdomen

1) Localized involuntary twitching of a muscle or group of muscles such as in the leg or face;
 2) Paralysis, often most noticeable in the hindlimbs which may be followed by paralysis of all the four limbs 3) Convulsions characterized by salivation and often chewing movements of the jaw (“chewing-gum fits”). The seizures become more frequent and severe, and the dog may fall on its side and paddle its legs; involuntary urination and defecation may occur. A dog may exhibit any or all of these neurologic signs in addition to others in the course of the disease. Infection may be mild and inapparent or lead to severe disease manifest by most of the above signs. The course of the systemic disease may be as short as 10 days, but the onset of neurologic signs may be delayed for several weeks or months.

Is there any treatment available for this disease?

 Treatment is generally directed to prevent secondary bacterial infection and further worsening the condition. Your vet may put your dog on fluids, antibiotics,dietary supplements, antipyretics, analgesics and anti-convulsants.

How does Canine Distemper spread ?

The main route of infection is via aerosol droplet secretions from infected animals. Some infected dogs may shed virus for several months.

A Pup with Canine Distemper- Note the discharge from the nose
 and  hyperkeratinization of the nose

How can I prevent Canine Distemper ?

Canine Distemper is preventable.The enveloped virus is sensitive to lipid solvents and most disinfectants and is relatively unstable outside the host.  Follow timely vaccinations as recommended by your veterinarian. Usually, a pup receives its first shot at 6 weeks of age.