When the puppy reaches around 14 months of age it requires a top-up booster vaccination. After that, it will need another booster every three years for the rest of its life. [4] X Research source Dogs that are most at risk of distemper are those that do not have any immunity to it. Typically these are puppies aged 3 - 6 months, or dogs that have not been vaccinated against distemper and have no natural immunity to this disease.
The most common source of infection is through contact with bodily fluids. This might be through contact with diarrhea or vomit containing the virus, or through the air when the dog sneezes. Dogs can become infected if they use contaminated food or water bowls. They can also get infected if they sniff and explore in an environment contaminated with viral particles. [12] X Research source This is why the virus is so infectious and why it’s so important to have your dog vaccinated.
An added complication is that dogs can shed distemper virus for several months after they have recovered from the first stage of the disease. Thus, outwardly they appear fine but they remain an infection risk to other dogs. [14] X Research source Socializing a dog that is infected with distemper can be hard. If you have another dog that you are absolutely sure is properly vaccinated, then you can have them interact. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Dogs do not have a lifelong resistance to distemper once they are vaccinated once. The vaccination must be boosted regularly to keep its effectiveness. [15] X Research source If you are in doubt at all, keep the infected dog away from all other dogs.
The virus is very much like the measles in humans. [17] X Research source It can impact a dog’s respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems, as well as its vision. [18] X Research source
Fever: One of the first signs is a raised temperature, as the virus multiplies in the body. The fever may make the dog depressed, quiet, and listless. It is likely to go off its food. Respiratory signs: These include a cough, with a snotty nasal discharge and a gummy discharge around the eyes. Gastrointestinal signs: Next the dog develops vomiting and diarrhea. He is progressively weaker due to a lack of appetite, and fluid loss from the sickness and diarrhea. Some dogs succumb at this point and die, whilst others do recover. Neurological signs: These can develop weeks to months after recovery from the respiratory and gastrointestinal signs. The dog may develop seizures, become blind, or become poorly coordinated. Hardpad: One of the lasting effects for dogs that survive distemper is that they develop hard pads and nose. This is why the common alternative name for distemper is “hardpad. "
Treatment can include IV fluids, anti-seizure medications, anti-diarrheals, and antibiotics. You should also focus on making the dog as physically comfortable as possible. Keep it warm and cozy at home. Shower the dog with love and attention while you still have time with it. Basically, do all that you can to ease its suffering and make the time it has left as pleasant as possible.
