Distemper, of which hard pad is a type where the virus attacks the pads of the
feet and nose, forming callous type hardenings, is a highly contagious viral
infection. All dogs are at risk of infection, but young dogs in their first
year are particularly at risk. Vaccination against this disease is essential
and highly recommended.
Distemper also affects wild animals such as foxes, wolves, weasels, skunks,
ferrets and some others. Fortunately distemper is not transferable to humans.
There are two distinct stages in the development of canine distemper.
First stage of canine distemper: Signs appear about 5 days after infection.
Symptoms include watery discharge from eyes and nose. Discharge may become
yellow and thick. High intermittent fever for one or two days interspersed with
periods of apparent recovery. Dog will be listless and may experience loss of
appetite, coughing, vomiting and dehydration can be a concern.
Second stage of canine distemper: the onset of this stage is more difficult to
predict and can occur within a week of the first stage, but can take as long as
several weeks to develop. Not all cases will develop into the second stage and
the onset of this stage is as a result of the virus attacking the nervous
system. Symptoms include seizures, slobbering, jerking of limbs, such as legs
or jaw. Possible loss of balance can occur. Hardening of pads and nose known as
hard pad can occur.
Vaccination is extremely effective in the prevention of canine distemper.
Although an immune mother can pass on some early protection against canine
distemper to her pups, vaccination is the only sensible solution and should be
given at about 8 weeks, followed by a booster program.
For dogs with canine distemper, treatment with antibiotics and antiserum can
help to save the dog's life.
Please note that the above symptoms, do not necessarily indicate canine
distemper as these symptoms can occur in other conditions. However if your dog
shows any of the above symptoms or you have reason to believe that your dog has
been in contact with a sick animal, please do not hesitate to consult a vet
immediately. Canine distemper is an extremely nasty disease and dogs that
survive can be left with lasting effects.
Most importantly, be sure to vaccinate your dog against canine distemper.
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