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Infecciosas

Canine distemper

A serious viral disease that affects several systems (respiratory, digestive, nervous). Highly contagious. Vaccination has made it rare, but it remains fatal in unvaccinated dogs.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs Contagious

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT. Any unvaccinated puppy with ocular/nasal discharge, fever and lethargy must see a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Discharge from the eyes and nose
  • • Coughing and breathing difficulty
  • • Fever
  • • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • • Severe lethargy
  • • Neurological signs in advanced stages: twitches, seizures
  • • Thickening of the paw pads

Causes

The distemper virus, highly contagious via respiratory secretions. Unvaccinated puppies are the most vulnerable.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs plus specific tests. The late neurological signs point towards the diagnosis.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment. Intensive supportive care (fluids, symptom control, antibiotics for secondary infections). Recovery is difficult and may leave neurological sequelae.

Prevention

VACCINATION. The distemper vaccine is a CORE (essential) vaccine: puppy course and boosters. It is the only effective protection.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT. Any unvaccinated puppy with ocular/nasal discharge, fever and lethargy must see a vet immediately.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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