Simple Treatment for Canine Distemper: Symptoms & Medic
Part 1: Why Do Dogs Get Canine Distemper?
Dogs are most susceptible to canine distemper between the ages of three months and one year, with the disease often striking during the fall and winter months. Puppies that are not breastfed miss out on the antibodies passed through colostrum, leaving them with weakened immune systems and more vulnerable to infections like canine distemper. To bolster their defenses, you can administer Antitrypsin IGY, a supplement rich in egg yolk immunoglobulin IGY and goat's colostrum powder. This helps to enhance the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria, reducing the chances of the virus contacting cells.
Part 2: Symptoms of Canine Distemper
The initial signs of canine distemper include a fever that can reach around 40°C, which may last for 12 days before returning to normal, only to rise again. This is the most critical window for treatment. During this period, dogs may exhibit respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, dry nose leather, and puffy eyelids. They may also suffer from gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Some dogs may develop neurological symptoms, typically in the later stages of the infection. These can range from mild facial twitching to more severe symptoms like drooling, frothing at the mouth, locked jaw, and seizures.
Part 3: Early Treatment for Canine Distemper
1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment
A TCM formula for canine distemper includes 6g of Coptis, 10g of Scutellaria, 10g of Gardenia, 10g of Licorice, 10g of Isatis, 10g of Isatis leaf, 10g of Gentiana, 6g of Bombyx, 20g of Rehmannia, 20g of Salvia miltiorrhiza, 15g of Alisma, 6g of Uncaria, 15g of Viola, 10g of Bupleurum, 6g of Pinellia, 10g of Atractylodes, 10g of Coptis, 15g of Forsythia, and 10g of Lonicera. Boil 2L or 2.5L of water with the herbs for 45 minutes, reducing to about 250300ML. Administer 1525ML to the dog, twice or thrice a day.
2. Western Medicine Treatment
(1) Intravenous Therapy: Since dogs need to fast from food and water during the early stages of treatment, intravenous fluids are crucial to maintain their energy and nutritional needs.
(2) Dogs with canine distemper often suffer from respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to dehydration. The virus attacks the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, and bacterial infections can exacerbate inflammation. Therefore, intravenous antibiotics are necessary to combat the infection, along with subcutaneous injections for vomiting and diarrhea control. Nebulization can help with respiratory issues, while medications target the gastrointestinal tract. Monoclonal antibodies and interferons are used to combat the distemper virus. As the dog's condition improves, they can gradually resume eating, starting with easily digestible and highnutrient foods.
(3) For early vomiting, you can use Puxiding (Puan特), a canine/feline antiemetic, which has analgesic and antiemetic properties, neutralizes stomach acid, repairs gastrointestinal ulcers, and effectively treats various intestinal inflammations and ulcers.
(4) To address fever, Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium can be used to combat bacterial infections like E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause inflammation. This medication can effectively treat respiratory infections leading to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, fever, runny nose, and watery eyes.
(5) Regular disinfection is essential when dealing with canine distemper, as the virus can spread easily. Regularly clean the dog's fur, utensils, toys, and the environment. Use Puan特 disinfectant to create a sterile environment, eliminating harmful bacteria and providing an odorfree atmosphere for your pet.
(6) During the course of treatment, energy supplements are important. Feeding the dog glucose water can help replenish energy. As the treatment for canine distemper can be lengthy, it's crucial to adhere to a strict medication schedule. Adjust the diet to include easily digestible and nutritious foods, and consider adding Puan特's active probiotics to improve intestinal health, alleviate diarrhea, enhance digestive immunity, stimulate appetite, lower serum cholesterol, and expel toxins from the body.
Pet Doctor's Tip: Treating canine distemper carries risks. Novice pet owners are advised to seek veterinary care for the best outcomes.