City of Carrollton, TX
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What is Distemper and how is it spread?
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is an extremely contagious virus that is most commonly spread by direct contact from one dog to another, or by airborne exposure from infected wildlife. The disease does not affect humans. Typically, a healthy dog inhales respiratory secretions from an infected animal, especially if the infected animal is coughing or sneezing. The virus then uses the host’s own immune system to spread itself throughout the body.
Unfortunately, there are no cures for CDV, and it has a high mortality rate among ferrets, raccoons, and unvaccinated dogs. The virus is always present in the environment, so the best prevention for dogs is to make sure they are vaccinated.
What are the symptoms of CDV?
Canines – CDV often starts with respiratory symptoms such as nasal discharge, discharge from the eyes, coughing, or sneezing. A fever can accompany these initial symptoms. In some cases, respiratory issues can be severe and lead to pneumonia. However, sometimes the respiratory phase of the infection is so mild that pet owners don’t notice their dogs are sick.
The virus then progresses to the gastrointestinal system and skin, causing decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Calluses on the nose and foot pads are common (hence the ancient name for CDV - “hard pad disease”). If the dog has survived this long, sometimes there is a break between this phase and the final phase, which can appear to the pet owner that the dog has recovered.
In the final phase, the virus moves into the central nervous system, causing neurologic signs like seizures that typically start with snapping or twitching of the jaws. A CDV seizure is often called a “chewing gum fit”. It is possible that some dogs may not develop full seizures, but will have tremors of the limbs or head, limb weakness, or imbalance. CDV is often fatal for dogs. However, a small percentage have survived, but with permanent symptoms.
Wildlife – CDV in wildlife typically includes respiratory symptoms similar to dogs. It may also include a rough coat of fur, the animal may be emaciated or thin, and it may display unusual behavior such as disorientation, wandering aimlessly. As the infection progresses, animals may appear to lose their natural fear of humans and can become aggressive if approached too closely.
How do I know if my dog has CDV?
If your dog develops any of the above symptoms, it’s best to have them seen by a vet, especially if your dog is a puppy, if you have any doubts about their vaccine history, or they come from a multiple dog environment. CDV is confirmed through a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.
How do you treat CDV?
You should always consult with your veterinarian for the best course of treatment. However, the fact remains that recovery from CDV is all about immunity, and treatment typically consists of supportive care while the dog mounts an immune response.
Is a CDV vaccine essential?
Yes! While CDV in dogs is less common than other viruses, it is occasionally seen in the shelter, rescue, and pet store world. CDV is more commonly seen in wildlife, including several species found here in Carrollton. Foxes, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and river otters all can spread CDV to our canine companions. Vaccination works and is essential!
Prior to widespread vaccination, CDV was the scourge of the canine community, wiping out entire towns of pet dogs.
The CDV vaccine is a combination vaccine against several of the most dangerous and most common infectious diseases of dogs. It should be given to puppies at six (6) weeks of age, then every three (3) weeks until the puppy reaches 16 weeks of age. After that, dogs should receive a CDV vaccine once per year.
Where can I vaccinate my dog?
Carrollton is fortunate to have a number of board-certified veterinarians throughout the community. You can find contact information for each through a quick online search of veterinarian clinics near you.
Other organizations that provide low-cost vaccinations include:
Residents of Carrollton can also follow Carrollton Animal Services & Adoption Center on Facebook to stay current on upcoming low-cost vaccination clinics throughout the year.
How can I protect my dog from infected wildlife?
First and foremost, vaccinate your pets. Routine vaccinations are essential to preventing the spread of disease.
Remove attractants from your yard.
- Feed pets indoors. If you feed outdoors, bring in feeding bowls immediately after pets have eaten.
- Secure garbage. Double bad food leftovers and tie tightly. Use a bungee cord to limit access to the bin and store garbage bins in a closed garage or shed, if possible.
- If you have a compost bin with fruit and vegetable scraps, fully secure or enclose it so wildlife cannot access it.
- Infected wildlife may pass through your yard and move on. If an animal dies in your yard, contact Animal Services directly at 972-466-3420 to have the remains picked up.
Do not feed wildlife. Providing artificial food sources may lead to unnaturally large concentrations of wildlife and increase the spread of diseases.
Leash your pet. Not only is it required by city ordinance, a leash allows you to quickly control your pet and maintain a proper distance when you encounter wildlife.
What should I do if I observe wildlife that exhibit concerning behavior?
Please contact Carrollton Animal Services directly at 972-466-3420. Animal Services Officers are available to respond daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.