March 12, 2012
Posted in Pet Health

Canine distemper is a serious condition that affects mainly young puppies or senior dogs. Distemper is a viral respiratory disease that starts off as a simple illness and can progress into an issue that causes brain damage. If you recently became an owner to a puppy or are a pet parent to an elder dog, there are certain steps you can take to keep your pup free from distemper.

Pet owners who get their dogs vaccinated needn't worry too much about their pets getting this disease as the vaccination typically wards off all development of the problem. As long as your puppy is visiting the vet, you should be in the clear. However, if your puppy is still too young to get the shot, you'll need to be extremely cautious about where you bring it as distemper is highly contagious.

Distemper is similar to the human measles virus and works to suppress a dog's immune system. Once the virus makes its way to the immune system it multiples and then spreads through the dog's entire body. The virus is transferable through a dog breathing or coughing, so bringing your new pup to the dog park or to visit with friends' dogs is not a good idea. The condition can also be spread by dogs sharing pet food or water, so if you do venture out with the dog, make sure to bring along its own pet products like its Durapet Dog Bowl and fresh water.

Puppies and older dogs are more susceptible to developing distemper due to their poor immune systems. The condition is also known to affect many wild animals such as hyenas, weasels, raccoons and large cats. 

Your dog could have distemper if it is experiencing symptoms including coughing or heavy breathing. The dog might also have a runny nose, or watery eyes, which may show up as a brown, rusty color under your dog's eyes if its coat is white. If you notice any of these signs, you should bring the dog to the vet for a proper diagnosis. If the issue is distemper, the vet may prescribe antibiotic pet drugs like Amoxicillin to prevent pneumonia, however there is no set cure or drug that kills the virus itself. Instead, the vet may recommend starting the pup on supportive care like making sure it drinks plenty of clear fluids and is resting comfortably as the virus subsides. Starting it on omega-3 supplements like Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet may help its immune system fight off the virus faster, while cleaning your home,
including bedding and the dog's bed covers, with household cleaning products can help, too. If your pup developed the rusty coloring under its eyes, you can try items like Angels' Eyes For Dogs and Cats which works to remove the stains.

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