Canine Distemper

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Canine distemper is an incurable, contagious, and potentially fatal disease found in dogs. It primarily affects the respiratory and central nervous system. It can infect adult dogs but most often puppies, adolescent dogs and older dogs are mostly at risk. It is a threat to domestic dogs as well as other canines including wolves, coyotes and foxes. It also affects skunks, ferrets and raccoons.

Symptoms include discharge from the nose and mouth, fever, vomiting, coughing, diarrhea, lung congestion and loss of appetite. The neurological phase of the disease includes seizures, possible paralysis, muscular twitches, (which can remain permanently), hardening of the pads of the paws, and hardened noses.

Sadly, this disease can be fatal but it can also be prevented. Vaccinations are highly effective and are mandatory to prevent the disease. Immunizations should begin after 6 weeks of age.

Fortunately, this successfully prevents the infection from occurring. If your dog or puppy has not been vaccinated, contact your vet immediately for an appointment. Adopted dogs and puppies from any animal shelter or refuge will already have been vaccinated before adoption takes place.

Reported By Nan Talleno, KYW Newsradio