Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a disease that suppresses the canine immune system. The virus is discharged in the secretions of infected dogs and is transmitted through the air. Many dogs with distemper die and dogs that survive may suffer permanent neurological problems such as convulsions or muscle twitching. Unvaccinated puppies are at most risk.

Canine distemper is an acute, highly contagious, viral disease affecting dogs, foxes, wolves, mink, raccoons, and ferrets. A few days after exposure to the virus, the animal develops a fever, becomes apathetic, and refuses food and water. Further symptoms include coughing and discharges from the eyes and nose; vomiting and diarrhea; and muscular twitching, paralysis, or convulsions.

In the 1960s distemper was the number one infectious killer of dogs. Thanks to effective vaccinations, it is now quite rare. That does not mean that the disease is eradicated. The most common signs are fever (103 to 105 °F or 38 to 40 °C), depression, loss of appetite, pus-filled eyes, nasal discharge, vomiting, and diarrhea, sometimes convulsions. Puppies at 8 weeks, then 10 to 12 weeks, depending on manufacturer's advice. Booster vaccinations should be administered at 15 months, then every three years.