Canine distemper is a viral disease that is highly contagious, incurable and often fatal when contracted. The virus attacks multiple systems in the dog's body. Widespread vaccination programs have lessened the impact of the virus. Canine distemper virus not only effects dogs but also raccoons, skunks and foxes. The virus is spread through the air, on clothing that has been in contact with an infected animal or from direct contact with another infected animal.
-
Mucus Membranes
-
The distemper virus attacks the mucus membranes. It causes nasal congestion, runny eyes, coughing and fluid in the lungs which can quickly lead to secondary bacterial pneumonia. The dog will also begin to run a fever and suffer from lethargy. The dog is extremely sensitive to light because of the pain it causes the eyes. The dog will prefer to lie in a dark room or under a bed. Young puppies who are infected with the distemper virus will often develop encephalitis of the brain quickly.
Intestinal Tract
-
The intestinal tract is affected in most cases of distemper in canines. The dog will vomit and exhibit diarrhea. The diarrhea is often blood streaked. Lesions develop throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The dog will loose interest in food and water. The dog appears to be depressed and seriously ill. Immediate medical intervention is required to prevent dehydration and death.
Nervous System
-
Many dogs will survive the initial infection and the above mentioned system attack but soon the nervous system is laid waste by the virus. Lesions develop on the brain. The nervous system symptoms will often materialize two to three weeks after the above-mentioned symptoms have subsided. The dog will often have severe seizures, be disoriented and have trouble walking. Many dogs commonly walk in circles and appear to be unable to stop the behavior. Most dogs afflicted will exhibit chorea, which is a nervous-system type of tic. The tic looks like an uncontrollable shake or muscle jerk in a limb or other area of the canines body. Some dogs will be unable to stop chewing as their jaws begin to contract and release. The neurological symptoms can often continue for up 10 days before the dog dies or recovers.
Retinal And Skin Involvement
-
Dogs often suffer retinal damage that limits the dog's sight or renders the dog completely blind. Often the cornea will become discolored. Many dogs who survive the multi-system attack of the distemper virus will go on to have skin involvement from the disease, a condition called hyperkeratosis. The dog's nose and paw pads will become thick and hard.
-