Canine distemper virus is a serious illness that can lead to death. While there is no cure for canine distemper virus, identifying the illness early on can give your dog a fighting chance.
Prevent Canine Distemper Virus
The best cure for canine distemper virus is prevention. Make sure your dog has a complete vaccination history.
Identifying Phase One Symptoms
The first phase of canine distemper is known as the mucosal stage. In this stage, the canine distemper virus attacks your dog's mucus membranes. Symptoms during this stage include:
* A gooey discharge from the eyes and nose * Fever * Poor appetite * Coughing * Pneumonia
Identifying Phase Two Symptoms
The second or neurological phase of canine distemper occurs when the virus attacks your dog's central nervous system. The neurological phase occurs one to three weeks after the mucosal phase ends.
Your dog will suffer seizures during the second phase of canine distemper. These seizures are characterized by snapping or tremoring of the jaws. The seizures may begin in the jaws and spread throughout the whole body.
Treatment of Canine Distemper Virus
The only treatment your vet can offer for canine distemper is treatment of secondary symptoms. However, it is possible that your dog can recover from canine distemper virus, even if the disease has advanced to the second phase. Treatment of secondary symptoms can help your dog recover.