Dogs and Infection
Canine distemper is a serious disease caused by a highly contagious virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system of dogs. The virus also infects wolves, coyotes, foxes, raccoons and other wild animals of the canine family. Young dogs are more prone to this infection. Adult dogs can also become infected but less frequently. More than 50% of the dogs who contracted this disease, dies because of it. In the case of puppies, the chances of survival are only 20%.
And where dogs to survive, it is very likely that your health is damaged forever. Distemper leaves the immune system deteriorated with little chance to recover. The most common effects are partial or total paralysis, deterioration of the sense of smell, hearing and vision. Infected dogs are more prone to other diseases such as pneumonia. Canine distemper is not transmitted to humans. Canine distemper virus is usually contracted by contact with the mucous membrane of the eyes and nose of infected dogs. Exposure to urine and faeces of infected dogs can also spread it. Not even in contact with infected dogs, a healthy dog can contract the virus by just being in kennels or other areas where have been infected dogs.
These areas can still accommodate the virus in the air keeping it alive for a long time. It is almost impossible to prevent your pet from being exposed to the virus. Some scientists say that all 12 months old dog has been in contact with the virus at least once. This cruel disease symptoms are not necessarily easy to detect. And why it is rare to get immediate treatment. The disease is hidden behind an apparent cold along with fever. Complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis and severe inflammation of the stomach and intestine can occur as a result of the disease. Owners should watch for symptoms such as watery or narrowed eyes, weight loss, vomiting, coughing, snot and diarrhea.
