Canine Distemper: Symptoms, Causes and Prevention Guide

Canine distemper is a serious viral infection that affects dogs and other carnivores such as ferrets and foxes. Caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), it is highly contagious and can be fatal. However, vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention and is a standard part of canine immunisation in the UK, including initial puppy vaccinations and annual boosters.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, transmission, and treatment of canine distemper is essential for every dog owner to protect their pet effectively. This guide provides a detailed overview to help you keep your dog safe.

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine distemper is caused by a paramyxovirus closely related to the human measles virus. It affects multiple body systems including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, nervous, immune systems, as well as the skin and eyes. One characteristic form is known as "hard pad disease," where the paw pads and sometimes the nose become abnormally thickened and hardened due to hyperkeratosis.

The virus initially targets lymphatic tissue in the respiratory tract before spreading throughout the body, potentially affecting the brain and other vital organs. Its airborne nature means that infection can occur even without direct contact with an infected dog.

Vaccination and Prevention

Vaccination is vital as there is no specific cure for canine distemper. Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6 to 8 weeks old, with boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks, followed by annual or triennial boosters as advised by your vet. Keeping vaccinations up to date offers the best protection and significantly reduces the risk of infection.

Unvaccinated puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. During the initial vaccination period, it is important to avoid exposing puppies to areas where many dogs gather or to unfamiliar dogs, as this is when they are most vulnerable.

Causes and Transmission

Canine distemper spreads through direct contact with infected dogs or their bodily secretions such as saliva, urine, and respiratory droplets. Airborne transmission can occur via coughing or sneezing. The virus can also survive on shared items including food and water bowls, toys, and bedding.

Any condition that compromises the immune system increases a dog's susceptibility to infection. Puppies are particularly vulnerable until they have completed their vaccination course and developed strong immunity.

Symptoms of Canine Distemper

Symptoms typically appear 3 to 14 days after exposure and vary in severity based on the viral strain and the dog’s immune response. Key signs to watch for include:

• Fever (above 39.7°C)
• Red, watery or pus-like eye discharge
• Clear or thick nasal discharge
• Lethargy and loss of interest in daily activities
• Sudden weight loss and poor appetite
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, and digestive upset
• Persistent cough or respiratory distress
• Thickening and hardening of paw pads and sometimes the nose ("hard pad disease")
• Neurological signs such as seizures, muscle twitching, paralysis, head tilts, and abnormal eye movements in advanced stages

Diagnosis and Treatment

Veterinarians diagnose canine distemper through clinical signs supported by blood tests to detect antibodies, urine analysis, and possibly swabs or biopsies of affected skin or mucous membranes.

There is no antiviral medication to cure the virus, so treatment focuses on symptom management and supportive care. This may include intravenous fluid therapy, nutritional support, antibiotics to address any secondary bacterial infections, and medications to control seizures or other neurological symptoms.

Prompt veterinary intervention improves chances of survival, but the prognosis varies depending on disease severity at presentation.

Prognosis and Long-term Care

Canine distemper has a high mortality rate, especially in young, unvaccinated, or untreated dogs. Nevertheless, some affected dogs recover completely and live healthy lives afterward.

Recovered dogs are no longer contagious but may experience residual neurological issues such as seizures or paralysis for several months following recovery. Lifelong follow-up and supportive care may be necessary in such cases.

Preventing distemper through vaccination and responsible care remains the best approach to safeguarding your pet's health and wellbeing.

For those looking to find a new puppy, ensure you find reputable breeders or consider adopting from trusted shelters to promote ethical dog ownership.