Canine distemper in dogs ,Symptoms, prevention, care

Posted by: admin on December 23, 2024

Canine distemper in dogs ,Symptoms, prevention, care

Canine Distemper in Dogs

 

Canine distemper is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening viral disease that affects dogs. It is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV) and can spread through direct contact with an infected dog's saliva, urine, or feces.

 

# Symptoms of Canine Distemper

 

1. Fever: High fever, often accompanied by lethargy and depression.

2. Discharge: Thick, yellowish discharge from the eyes and nose.

3. Coughing: Harsh, hacking cough.

4. Vomiting: Vomiting and diarrhea.

5. Seizures: Seizures and tremors in severe cases.

6. Paralysis: Paralysis of the face, legs, or tail in severe cases.

 

# Stages of Canine Distemper

 

1. Incubation period: 3-6 days after exposure to the virus.

2. Prodromal stage: 1-2 weeks after exposure, characterized by fever, discharge, and coughing.

3. Neurological stage: 2-4 weeks after exposure, characterized by seizures, tremors, and paralysis.

 

# Diagnosis of Canine Distemper

 

1. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination by a veterinarian.

2. Laboratory tests: Blood tests, urine tests, and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests to detect the virus.

3. Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to rule out other conditions.

 

# Treatment of Canine Distemper

 

1. Supportive care: Providing supportive care, such as fluids, antibiotics, and anti-seizure medication.

2. Hospitalization: Hospitalizing the dog to prevent the spread of the disease and provide intensive care.

3. Antiviral medication: Administering antiviral medication, , to help manage the disease.

 

# Prevention of Canine Distemper

 

1. Vaccination: Vaccinating dogs against CDV, starting at 6-8 weeks of age.

2. Boosters: Providing booster shots every 3-4 weeks until the dog is 16 weeks old.

3. Isolation: Isolating dogs that have not been vaccinated or have been exposed to the virus.

4. Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands and disinfecting surfaces, to prevent the spread of the disease.

 

# Prognosis of Canine Distemper

 

The prognosis for dogs with canine distemper is guarded, and the outcome depends on the severity of the disease and the promptness of treatment. With proper care and treatment, some dogs may recover, but others may suffer from long-term neurological damage or succumb to the disease.

 

for more details connect with your veterinarian doctor

follow further advice of doctor for better care

 

Written by & Posted by

Dr. Krishna Kant Kankar

veterinarian at 

PRIME VET CLINIC, INDORE

 

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