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Canine Distemper also know as Hardpad Disease is a contagious deadly viral disease caused by the paramyxovirus which is closely related to the measles and rinderpest viruses.
The disease is spread from the host infected animal to other animals via airborne minute droplet secretions. Once the virus gets into the animal, it finds it's way to the lymphatic system of the respiratory tract where it multiplies and is then transmitted to the Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract, Central Nervous System (CNS),urogenital epithelium and optic nerves.
A dog after 3 days of being infected may show signs of a fever and a decrease in the white blood count. The fever may subside after a few days and then re-occur. With the fever there may be nasal and ocular discharge. Following this, secondary bacterial may occur. Lesions (Hyperkeratosis)(hardpads)of the footpads are quite noticeable.
Central Nervous Systems (CNS) signs are, involuntary twitching of muscles,paralysis in the hindlimbs, and convulsions of a chewing nature.
Treatment of canine distemper, includes fluid balance, trying to limited the secondary bacterial infections and controlling the CNS ailments. Antibiotics,good electrolyte fuid balance, anticonvulsants, analgesics, good nutrition are all used for a good recovery.
As part of a puppy examination distemper vaccinations are given from six weeks old with interval shots after two to fours weeks.
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