Distinguishing Dog Cold from Canine Distemper: Key Sign
What is a Cold?
The term "cold" refers to a range of symptoms that arise from respiratory infections. Common manifestations include a runny nose, sneezing, fever, and coughing. Dogs can also suffer from colds, which are typically caused by viral or bacterial infections.
What is Canine Distemper?
Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease in dogs, caused by a specific canine distemper virus. The early stages of the disease often mimic a cold, making it crucial to differentiate between the two.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Cold and Canine Distemper
To distinguish between a cold and canine distemper, it's important to look out for the following symptoms:
1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Dogs with distemper may exhibit a lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stools, and severe dehydration, along with high fever. These symptoms can be mistaken for a common cold, but they indicate a more serious condition.
2. Respiratory Symptoms: Beyond a simple cough, dogs with distemper may suffer from persistent coughing, frequent sneezing, thick nasal discharge, red and swollen eyes, and an increase in eye discharge, which can become puslike later on.
3. General Health Symptoms: Dogs may appear listless, sleep more than usual, and shiver due to coldness.
Treatment for Dog Colds and Canine Distemper
A dog cold is generally manageable and can be treated with overthecounter pet medications for colds, coughs, and inflammation. For more severe cases, veterinary care, including injections, intravenous fluids, and nebulization, may be necessary. Ensuring your dog stays warm is also crucial.
Treating canine distemper is more challenging and can be lifethreatening, especially for puppies. It's best to consult a veterinarian, who will tailor treatment to the dog's condition. During this time, it's essential to provide your dog with proper nutrition to boost its immune system and maintain good hygiene to help fight off the virus.
How to Prevent Canine Distemper
Vaccination is crucial for preventing canine distemper. Vaccines act as a vital shield against viruses and bacteria, and getting your dog vaccinated is a costeffective way to protect your pet.
Additionally, during peak virus seasons, such as late winter and early spring, it's advisable to limit your dog's exposure to outdoor activities, particularly if it hasn't been vaccinated. Avoid allowing your dog to come into contact with other dogs in group settings, especially those that may not be vaccinated.
