What it is
The distemper virus spreads through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, and through its discharges, bowls and other objects. Dogs are not the only animals that carry it: wild carnivores such as foxes, raccoon dogs and martens do too, so a dog can catch it without any contact with other dogs.
The virus first multiplies in the airways, then spreads through the whole body and weakens the immune system, which is why bacterial infections can join in. In some dogs the nervous system is affected weeks later, even after the breathing or digestive trouble has passed.
Vaccination protects a puppy against distemper: your vet can tell you which vaccinations it needs and when. Until a puppy has finished them, keep it away from unknown dogs. Keep a sick dog apart from other dogs.
Signs you may notice
- Pus-like discharge from the eyes
- Thick discharge from the nose
- Coughing
- Fever and lethargy
- Vomits or has diarrhoea
- Muscle twitching or seizures
At first the dog runs a fever, turns lethargic, has thick, pus-like discharge from the eyes and nose, coughs and may vomit or have diarrhoea. Later, signs of the nervous system can appear: muscle twitching, seizures, an unsteady walk. Sometimes the skin of the nose and paw pads hardens.
When to see a vet
If a puppy or an unvaccinated dog has a fever and discharge from the eyes or nose, have it seen by a vet as soon as possible, and phone the clinic before you arrive. Seizures, muscle twitching or an unsteady walk need a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.