Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), known in our country as youth virus; It is a paramyxovirus closely related to measles and rinderpest viruses. The history of distemper in dogs dates back to the 1760s. It occurs in a variety of terrestrial carnivores, including Canidae (dog, fox, wolf, raccoon dog), Mustelidae (weasel, mink, skunk, marten, badger, otter), Procyonidae (raccoon).
What Is Dog Canine Distemper?
Distemper disease, which can be seen in puppies and adult dogs, is a viral infection that affects many systems at once. Youth disease occurs with the effect of canine distemper virus (CDV), a single-stranded RNA virus that is a member of the paramyxoviridae family, which includes viruses such as measles and rinderpest.
What Are the Symptoms of Canine Distemper in Dogs?
Symptoms of distemper in dogs vary depending on the stage of the disease and how advanced it is. Symptoms of the disease:
- Eye and nose discharge
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Hardening of the nose and paw pads
- Brain and spinal cord inflammation
- Muscle twitches
- Keeping head tilted all the time
- Depression
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Loss of coordination in movements
How to Diagnose Dog Canine Distemper?
The diagnosis of distemper in dogs is made by the veterinarian by applying some methods. These methods can be listed as follows:
- Physical examination: The veterinarian examines the dog's physical condition and symptoms.
- Blood test: The presence of certain antibodies is detected to diagnose the virus causing the disease.
- PCR test: It is used to detect the presence of distemper virus in the dog by searching.
- Neurological examination: Neurological damage caused by the disease is examined.
- X-ray and ultrasound: Depending on the extent of the disease, some internal organs of the dog may be damaged. For this reason, these damages are examined by imaging the internal organs.
How to Treat Canine Distemper in Dog?
As with most viral infections, there is no specific treatment method that offers a definitive solution for distemper. Although antibiotics are not effective against viruses, they can be used to prevent secondary bacterial infections that occur with distemper. Treatment of distemper is generally applied to reduce the intensity of signs and symptoms. The treatment methods to be followed by the veterinarian after the clinical examination can be as follows:
- Antibiotic treatment: Although viruses are the cause of the disease, bacterial infections may occur along with viral infections. For this reason, antibiotic therapy may be recommended.
- Fluid therapy: Canine distemper can cause fluid loss in dogs. Fluid therapy can be applied if deemed appropriate by the veterinarian to ensure hydration.
- Symptomatic treatment: Considering the symptoms the dog has and the severity of the disease, different drugs and methods can be added to the treatment plan to alleviate the existing symptoms.
- Care: It is important that maintenance routines such as providing a suitable hygienic environment in living spaces, a balanced diet, regular hair care and always access to water are carried out without interruption.
- Vaccination: Youth disease can be prevented by vaccination. However, the dog caught pre-vaccine distemper must first be treated. After recovery, the time of vaccination can be decided by the direction of the veterinarian.
How Is Dog Canine Distemper Transmitted?
As a viral disease, distemper can spread very quickly and easily. Infection can develop in healthy animals through urine, blood, saliva and respiratory droplets from infected dogs.
Dogs can contract distemper in the following ways:
- By direct contact with an infected animal or object
- By air
- Via placenta
Youth disease; Depending on the dog's age, state of health and immune system, it can lead to paralysis or life-threatening risks.
The Importance of Vaccination in Canine Distemper
Most puppies can be protected from distemper for a certain period, thanks to the strong antibodies they receive from their mother's milk. These antibodies lose their effectiveness as the pup grows, leaving them vulnerable to infection. Therefore, in order to prevent distemper in dogs, vaccination should be done with an appropriate program prescribed by your physician.
Can Canine Distemper Be Transmitted to Humans?
No, distemper is not contagious to humans. However, humans can transmit the virus to other dogs through hands and clothing.
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