Canine Distemper is a highly contagious disease caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of dogs.
Observing cases of Canine Distemper in certain areas of Goa, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services issued an advisory on Thursday to pet owners and the public to be vigilant and watch for signs and symptoms in dogs.
Health authorities confirm that Canine Distemper is a viral disease that spreads only between dogs and cannot be transmitted to humans, although the disease is spreading fast in Goa among unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated dogs. A healthy dog can contract the contagious virus through the saliva, respiratory droplets or coming in close contact with the urine or faeces of infected animals.
Talking about animals who have an increased risk of developing viral infections, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) explained, "In addition to dogs, canine distemper virus can infect ferrets as well as a wide range of other mammals, especially carnivores. These include several wildlife species such as wild canines (e.g., foxes and wolves), raccoons, and skunks. Cats also may become infected but are unlikely to get sick."
Zoologists explain that the CDV virus initially attacks the cells of the immune system, which affects the immune response in dogs. And when the disease gradually spreads to the respiratory and gastrointestinal system, infected dogs may show signs that include:
A severe condition of Canine Distemper may affect the nervous system, which can cause muscle twitching, convulsions, paralysis, head tilt, circling movements, and seizures.
As of now, there is no specific antiviral for treating this highly contagious disease. However, experts recommend that early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent secondary infections. It is common to witness animals with mild cases of Canine Distemper improve on their own, but advanced neurological cases often have a poor prognosis.
The department urges pet owners to have regular checkups and timely vaccinations to avoid health crises, including maintaining a distance between healthy dogs and stray or sick dogs. Additionally, the advisory further noted that vaccines and medications are not provided free of cost by the government.
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