Canine Distemper
Canine Distemper: Just get Vaccinated!
10/10/2013
Canine Distemper Virus, abbreviated CDV, is a virus that can affect dogs of any age but most commonly affects puppies. It is highly contagious, transferred most commonly amongst dogs and puppies, by coughing or sneezing on each other. It has a high mortality rate, 80% of puppies and 50% of dogs that get catch the Canine Distemper Virus will die from it. The most unique characteristics of the virus are the hardening of the paw pads, also known as hyperkeratosis of the footpads, and the discolored, pitted teeth, and seizures. It is very hard to diagnose and treat CDV, however it’s very easy to prevent it with the use of regular vaccinations.
Even though the Canine Distemper Virus is most common in dogs, it has also been found in, foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, and ferrets. According to Wendy C. with VeterinaryPartner.com the type of dogs that typically get canine distemper are rescue dogs or pet store puppies. They have unknown health or vaccination history or has not been vaccinated yet. They’ve also had plenty of exposure opportunities while being housed with lots of other dogs.
While it is most commonly inhaled, Canine Distemper Virus can also be ingested. This happens when a dog ingests an affected dog’s feces, or drinks an affected dog’s urine. Canine Distemper Virus is highly contagious, however it can only live in normal conditions for a short time without a host. CDV is most contagious in the first two weeks after getting the virus.
The first body system that is affected when a dog is contracting Canine Distemper Virus is the respiratory system. This is because it is usually caught by an unvaccinated but otherwise healthy dog inhaling the tiny virus inside a secretion from an affected dog’s cough or sneeze. The Virus also causes a discharge to emerge from the dog’s nose and eyes. The dog’s immune system will send macrophage cells to search and destroy the virus. Normally the macrophage
10/10/2013
Canine Distemper Virus, abbreviated CDV, is a virus that can affect dogs of any age but most commonly affects puppies. It is highly contagious, transferred most commonly amongst dogs and puppies, by coughing or sneezing on each other. It has a high mortality rate, 80% of puppies and 50% of dogs that get catch the Canine Distemper Virus will die from it. The most unique characteristics of the virus are the hardening of the paw pads, also known as hyperkeratosis of the footpads, and the discolored, pitted teeth, and seizures. It is very hard to diagnose and treat CDV, however it’s very easy to prevent it with the use of regular vaccinations.
Even though the Canine Distemper Virus is most common in dogs, it has also been found in, foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, and ferrets. According to Wendy C. with VeterinaryPartner.com the type of dogs that typically get canine distemper are rescue dogs or pet store puppies. They have unknown health or vaccination history or has not been vaccinated yet. They’ve also had plenty of exposure opportunities while being housed with lots of other dogs.
While it is most commonly inhaled, Canine Distemper Virus can also be ingested. This happens when a dog ingests an affected dog’s feces, or drinks an affected dog’s urine. Canine Distemper Virus is highly contagious, however it can only live in normal conditions for a short time without a host. CDV is most contagious in the first two weeks after getting the virus.
The first body system that is affected when a dog is contracting Canine Distemper Virus is the respiratory system. This is because it is usually caught by an unvaccinated but otherwise healthy dog inhaling the tiny virus inside a secretion from an affected dog’s cough or sneeze. The Virus also causes a discharge to emerge from the dog’s nose and eyes. The dog’s immune system will send macrophage cells to search and destroy the virus. Normally the macrophage