02/11/2023
The Distemper Dilemma
Article by Dr Ariette Da Silva
Distemper viral infection is a divesting disease for any veterinarian to diagnose. The devastation lies in one simple fact: there is no cure. This is definitely one of the most difficult conversations to have with a pet parent. We as veterinarians often feel helpless as no matter which route of treatment we choose to take, the end result is the loss of a beloved pet and broken hearted pet parents. What brings even more sadness to mind is the fact the Distemper is 100% preventable with timeous vaccination of puppies.
This simple procedure is one of the most important duties we all have as pet parents to give our fur babies a long, happy and healthy life.
What is it?
Distemper is a highly contagious virus that attacks many different body systems. This leads to wide spread infection in the body, making it very difficult to treat. Distemper is highly fatal, and even when infected puppies survive acute infection they will eventually develop permanent, irreparable nervous system problems
How does the virus spread?
1. Through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated objects
-NB! infected dogs can shed the virus for several months after becoming infected putting all dogs they come in contact with at risk
2. Airborne exposure over short distances
3. Through the placenta of pregnant distemper positive dogs
Prevention:
-All three puppy vaccinations at 3 week intervals- timing is important!
-we recommend 4 vaccinations for Rottweilers and GSD's
-keep puppies isolated from high risk areas(dog parks/beach/walking trails) until fully vaccinated
-only socialize puppies with other vaccinated puppies in low risk areas
-Yearly vaccination boosters
Clinical signs:
The signs can vary very wildly depending on which organ system is affected.
The virus first infects the respiratory system, where it starts multiply, and then starts to spread to the rest of the body
-Watery or p***y discharge from eyes and nose, coughing
-Fever, lethargy, decreased or loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea
-Because the immune system is now overwhelmed from wide-spread infection with the virus, there is also a high risk for secondary bacterial infections, which complicates treatment even more
Neurological signs develop due to the virus attacking the net is system
-head tilt, walking in circles, partial or full paralysis, seizures, muscle twitching, death
Diagnosis:
Based on a combination of clinical signs, history of patient and laboratory testing.
Treatment:
NO CURE
Symptomatic and supportive treatment
