Understanding Canine Distemper: Essential Info

I. Canine Distemper

Canine distemper, caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), is a highly contagious and often fatal infectious disease primarily affecting canid species.

II. Epidemiology

Source of Infection: Primarily from infected dogs and carriers (through secretions, excretions, and tears).

Modes of Transmission: Mainly via the respiratory route, with the digestive tract being a secondary route.

Susceptible Animals: Dogs, ferrets, and raccoons. Puppies with incomplete immunity (36 months old) are particularly susceptible. Natural incidence of the disease decreases with age.

III. Symptoms of Canine Distemper

The disease manifests with a combination of reduced appetite and general malaise, accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms such as watery or puslike discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, and coughing. Additional symptoms may include:

1. Febrile Phase: Characterized by a biphasic fever pattern (initially, the body temperature rises to 39.541 degrees Celsius, then returns to normal for 13 days, followed by another rise in temperature, which may occur at irregular intervals).

2. Respiratory Symptoms: The eyes and nose may produce粘稠或脓性分泌物, the nose may become dry and cracked, and the cornea may become cloudy.

3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

4. Neurological Symptoms: Local or generalized muscle tremors, which often lead to poor recovery later on.

5. Skin Manifestations: Localized skin rashes, hardening of the nose tip, and thickening of the paw pads.

IV. Diagnosis of Canine Distemper

1. Medical History: Unvaccinated puppies in contact with infected dogs.

2. Clinical Symptoms: The presence of symptoms consistent with the disease.

3. Rapid Test: Use of canine distemper antigen rapid test kits in conjunction with the medical history and clinical symptoms.

4. PCR Antigen Detection: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for the presence of the virus.

V. Treatment of Canine Distemper

Principles of Treatment: Antibacterial, antiviral, and symptomatic therapy.

Symptomatic Treatment:

Gastroenteritis: Antiemetic, antidiarrheal, fluid replacement, and gastrointestinal function improvement.

Respiratory: Cough suppression and bronchodilation.

Neurological: Nutritional support for nerves and antispasmodic sedation.

Antibiotics: To prevent secondary infections, use of specific antibiotics and combination antibiotic regimens.

Antivirals: Interferon and canine distemper monoclonal antibodies.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Some owners opt for traditional Chinese medicine, though personal experience and efficacy are not confirmed. Oral antitetanus immunoglobulin (IGY) is also said to be effective, but this has not been substantiated.

VI. Prevention of Canine Distemper

1. Control of Sources of Infection: Keep puppies isolated from other dogs until full vaccination is completed, and avoid contact with sick dogs.

2. Prevention of Transmission: Avoid using utensils, toys, and other items that have been used by infected dogs.

3. Enhancing Immunity: Maintain a balanced diet and vaccinate dogs at the appropriate age to strengthen their immune system.