Comprehensive vaccination programs have reduced the incidence of canine distemper, which at one time was the foremost cause of death in puppies not inoculated from it. Canine distemper is viral in nature and affects many of a dog's vital systems, often resulting in death.
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Infection
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A dog suffering from canine distemper can infect other dogs through its secretions and excretions. Inhaled airborne particles containing the virus are the major cause of infection.
Early Symptoms
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As the virus spreads through the dog and multiplies, it can bring about symptoms such as loss of appetite, fever and eye inflammation. The gastrointestinal signs of distemper include diarrhea and vomiting, while respiratory signs include can include troubled breathing and coughing.
Possible Effects
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Dogs that succumb to the disease typically perish from neurological complications such as paralysis, seizures and loss of muscle coordination, resulting in coma and death. Death occurs in over 50 percent of cases between 2 weeks and 3 months following infection, according to AnimalHealthChannel.com.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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A diagnosis of distemper is difficult to achieve and the dog's vaccination history is usually a clue to what may be wrong. There is no cure for distemper, but there are medications to help alleviate some of the symptoms. According to AnimalHealthChannel.com, however, a dog may be saved if it is vaccinated within 4 days of becoming infected.
Prevention
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A puppy has some immunity to canine distemper virus via its mother's milk, but after about 6 weeks this begins to wear off, which is when the dog should receive distemper vaccinations. Updated shots over the course of the animal's life can keep it safe from distemper.
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