Can Adult Dogs Contract Canine Distemper?

Early symptoms of canine distemper in dogs can often be mistaken for a common cold. Infected dogs may experience fluctuating temperatures, reaching as high as 39.541°C, which can last for 23 days. They may exhibit dry nostrils and discharge watery mucus, a dry cough, and swollen eyes. Puppies, unfortunately, are particularly susceptible to this disease, making it easy for owners to suspect distemper when their young pets show coldlike symptoms.

Canine distemper, with its staggering 80% mortality rate, silently claims the lives of countless dogs. Its virulent virus is nearly impossible to eradicate, and its transmission methods are numerous and insidious: through the air, direct contact with other dogs, and the secretions of infected animals.

Therefore, taking your dog out for social activities can potentially expose them to distemper. This is why it's advisable to limit the outings of puppies before they are vaccinated, one of the many reasons for such precautions. Some pet owners might wonder: "If we've vaccinated our dogs, shouldn't they be immune to distemper?" It's a common misconception. Vaccination does not guarantee 100% immunity; it's a basic fact that needs to be understood.

Even dogs that have been vaccinated may safely navigate puppyhood without the vaccine taking effect. As they grow older, their bodies may lose the immunity to distemper, leaving them vulnerable at any age. To ensure complete peace of mind after completing a vaccination series, it's wise to undergo antibody testing. Maintaining a certain level of antibodies is key to preventing infection.

Moreover, dogs that have survived distemper in their youth and recovered will develop antibodies, so there's no need to worry about a recurrence in adulthood. If an adult dog appears to have contracted distemper, it's crucial to act promptly. While it's normal for adult dogs to have colds, it's not advisable to rely solely on hospital visits for diagnosis.

Being vigilant is commendable, but the simplest way to test for canine distemper at home is with a CDV (Canine Distemper) test kit. However, it's important to note that these tests are not foolproof. Multiple tests and a temperature check, combined with the dog's symptoms, can provide a more accurate diagnosis.

Canine distemper can manifest in five primary types: hyperacute, acute, respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, and skin symptoms. It primarily affects the respiratory system, making coughing and runny noses prominent. However, these symptoms can also be present in colds, so they should not be the sole basis for diagnosis.

Beyond the initial symptoms mentioned earlier, dogs with distemper may also exhibit a loss of appetite, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the middle stage of the disease, the dog's temperature may rise again, and their spirits may wane, leading to a lack of energy and a desire to lie down. They may also show a decrease in appetite, increased discharge from the eyes, and cracks in the nostrils. The coughing may become more pronounced. By this stage, the dog's condition is significantly different from that of a cold, which is why many adult dogs are often diagnosed at this point.

Should your dog test positive for canine distemper, seek veterinary care immediately. Never rely on the hope that your pet will recover on its own. Prevention is always better than cure, and both puppies and adult dogs need to be adequately protected.

Here's a summary of preventive measures for canine distemper:

1. Vaccination: Dogs are vaccinated to prevent diseases like distemper and parvovirus, but vaccination is not 100% effective.

2. Purchase dogs from reputable breeders or kennels, avoiding unknown dog farms and street vendors.

3. Keep puppies indoors and away from other dogs, as their immune systems are weaker. This reduces the risk of infection.

4. Regularly disinfect your home environment to prevent bacterial growth.