Symptoms of Canine Distemper: Critical Signs in Dogs
Section 1: What to Do When a Dog Contracts Canine Distemper
Immediate action is crucial when a dog is diagnosed with canine distemper. First and foremost, the affected dog must be quarantined promptly. Subsequently, thoroughly disinfect the dog's living environment using agents like lye and sodium hypochlorite. It is vital to prevent any contact between the sick dog and healthy ones. For confirmed cases, passive immunotherapy should be initiated immediately with canine distemper hyperimmune serum.
Section 2: Symptoms of Canine Distemper
Early Stage: Dogs may exhibit respiratory symptoms, with excessive watery, mucopurulent discharge from the eyes and nose. Their body temperature may soar above 40°C, typically followed by a drop in temperature after about two days. If the dog shows signs of improvement and starts eating, it may seem to recover. However, the symptoms may recur around the third to fourth day, with a renewed rise in temperature and persistent fever for several weeks. Respiratory and gastrointestinal inflammation will also become more pronounced, and this phase may last for 1 to 2 weeks with proper treatment.
Intermediate Stage: As the fever spikes again, the dog's condition worsens, leading to secondary bacterial infections. Respiratory symptoms intensify, and the dog may shiver, appear listless, and have increased, purulent nasal and ocular discharge. Lesions around the eyes and mouth may occur due to bacterial invasion. Persistent coughing can lead to tracheitis or pneumonia, and vomiting and diarrhea will become frequent. The dog's appetite may decrease significantly, and they may refuse to eat, leading to dehydration and weight loss. This phase can last for more than a month.
Late Stage: The primary manifestation is neurological symptoms. In addition to the symptoms from the intermediate stage, neurological signs such as depression, spasmodic muscle contractions, disordered motor movements, balance disorders, seizures, and coma may appear. Dogs typically succumb to these symptoms within 1 to 2 weeks.
Tip from the Pet Doctor: For more information on canine distemper, click here to read about How to Treat Canine Distemper in Its Early Stages.
