PET ADVICE: Canine Distemper; the silent pet killer

As winter draws to an end and summer beckons on us, certain animal viruses and illnesses will coming to the fore.

Therefore it is of utmost importance to keep an eye on your pets and protect them this summer against the threat of disease.

Canine distemper is a contagious and life-threatening viral disease that can affect dogs and other animals, as it is a contagious and serious viral illness with no known cure.

Heather Gero of the Newcastle SPCA said your dog could survive the sickness, depending on the strain of the virus and the health and strength of its immune system.

Although recovery is entirely possible after treatment, seizures and fatal disturbances to the central nerve system may still occur two or three months after recovery.

Canine distemper is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory secretions, and then the virus invades the tissue, blood, lungs, intestines, bladder and nervous system of the animal.

“The virus attacks the respiratory immune system of animals and can be transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes in contact with the faeces of an infected dog. It has been proven that the virus can survive in soil for up to a year if not treated properly.”

Common symptoms of the disease are fever, runny nose, eye discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and spastic muscle contractions.

Young, unvaccinated puppies and non-immunised older dogs are more susceptible to this disease; therefore the best and only prevention is to make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and repeated annually.

Pet’s should receive their inoculations at the following ages:

– First inoculation at eight weeks

– Second inoculation at 12 weeks

– Third inoculation at 16 weeks

– and then it is highly recommended the dog has a booster inoculation every year thereafter.

It is imperative that pets receive all their inoculations, starting from birth, as it minimised the risk of their animals contracting the dreaded decease.

Once a dog has been infected, its chance of survival is minimal as by the time the disease is detected, it is usually already too late for the cure.

It is advisable that pet owners always keep a close eye on the behaviour of their pets, and to seek the help of a vet immediately if they suspect anything strange.

If infected, a dog will be put on a drip and receive some serious medical treatment.

However, depending on the dog’s immune system and how they fight the disease will determine whether or not the dog will survive.

Symptoms of distemper/ parvo will include the following:

– High fever

– Listlessness

– Loss of appetite

– Vomiting or foaming at the mouth

– Diarrhoea

– White or bluish gums

– Dehydration

If you suspect your pet has any of the above symptoms contact your local vet immediately in order to start treatment as soon as possible.