Canine distemper

Prevention is better than cure

This saying is particularly true for certain diseases that can have serious, even fatal consequences for your dog. One such condition, known as distemper, deserves to be known by pet owners who want to ensure the best possible future for their friend. It's a serious condition whose evolution and difficulty of treatment often leave a bitter taste of helplessness.

A virus

This disease is caused by a virus capable of infecting several carnivores: canids (dogs, wolves, foxes), mustelids (ferrets, mink) and procyonids (raccoons). It is transmitted via all the animal's bodily secretions (ocular discharge, nasal discharge, saliva, urine, feces). The virus is not resistant in the external environment, and is spread mainly by direct contact between animals. As dogs are known for their sociability, the disease can quickly be transmitted from one animal to another. Beware: if your dog has been in contact with an infected animal, it will only show symptoms one to four weeks later, the time needed for the virus to develop in its body. The disease affects dogs of all ages, but is most often seen in puppies, as adults are mostly immunized by vaccination.

The symptoms

The nature and severity of symptoms vary greatly from one animal to another. In the first phase of the disease, affected dogs generally present with fever, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and anorexia. Digestive problems (diarrhea), respiratory problems (coughing, pneumonia), skin problems (pustules, abnormal skin growths on the pads and nose) and nervous problems may follow. The latter disorder manifests itself in various ways: tremors, involuntary muscle contractions, paralysis often beginning in the hind limbs, convulsions. If your dog survives this nerve damage, he may still develop after-effects (involuntary muscle contractions, epilepsy). In the longer term, chronic infection with the virus can lead to inflammation of your old dog's brain, without the disease having been detected at a young age! This can lead to abnormal behavior (e.g., pushing your dog's head against walls, uncoordinated movements).

Vaccination recommended

Fortunately, it is possible - and highly recommended - to protect your faithful companion against this often dismal disease. Puppies can be vaccinated from the age of 12 weeks, with two injections 3-4 weeks apart. An annual booster is then recommended.
In high-risk situations (animal gatherings: pet shops, shelters, boarding kennels), vaccination is recommended from 6 to 10 weeks of age. However, at this age, the puppy still possesses maternal antibodies which can interfere with the vaccine and prevent it from taking effect. A second injection must therefore be given at 14 weeks.
Finally, it's worth knowing that distemper is considered by law to be a redhibitory defect. In other words, if you discover that your puppy was already ill when you acquired him, you are entitled to demand a refund from the seller.
In any case, make sure your four-legged friend is vaccinated, and keep an eye out for any symptoms, to ensure a long and peaceful life at your side.