You may have seen “DHPP” or “DAPP” on your paperwork from your pet’s routine vet visit and wondered what it means. The “D” in this combination vaccine stands for distemper, a disease that usually spreads from one dog to another through direct contact, coughing, and sneezing. Show
Distemper is one of the core vaccines for dogs, meaning that all dogs should remain current on this important vaccination. Distemper in dogs can turn fatal very quickly, which is why you never want your dog to have to face it. Here’s why protection from canine distemper virus is so important. What Is Distemper in Dogs and Puppies?Canine distemper is a highly contagious, often fatal viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), nervous system, and other organs of dogs. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs and especially puppies are at highest risk. Distemper doesn’t just affect dogs. Infected ferrets and wildlife—foxes, wolves, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, and other carnivores—can also become sick and transmit the virus to dogs. Distemper in dogs can be prevented through a core vaccination series that should be performed by a licensed veterinarian. Symptoms of Distemper in Dogs and PuppiesDistemper in dogs often initially presents as yellow- to green-colored eye discharge, followed by: Some dogs only appear to have a minor cold with eye and nasal discharge, while others may have no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, dogs can develop:
Causes of Distemper in DogsDistemper is transmitted mainly through respiratory secretions (coughing and sneezing) but other bodily fluids like urine, vomit, and stool can also contain the virus. Contact with an infected animal is the most common way for distemper to spread, but shared food bowls and contaminated supplies, surfaces, and equipment can also pose a risk. Dogs, ferrets, and wildlife can appear healthy and still be a source of the distemper virus. Recovered dogs may remain contagious for four months or more. Are Puppies More Prone to Canine Distemper?Yes, puppies are at highest risk for canine distemper, but any dog who is not fully vaccinated against the virus can become sick regardless of age. Can Humans Get Distemper?At this time, there is no evidence that humans can get canine distemper. However, ferrets are also at risk for being infected with the canine distemper virus and should be vaccinated against it. Treating Distemper in Dogs and PuppiesDistemper treatment for dogs consists of supportive care of clinical signs and can vary depending on a dog’s symptoms. The most common treatments are:
Can a Dog Recover From Distemper?Dogs can survive distemper, but they may develop lifelong debilitating nervous system issues. Adult dogs are more likely to survive infection than puppies. Distemper can cause chronic seizures and muscle twitches. Neurologic symptoms may develop weeks or months after a dog has been infected with distemper virus and remain for the rest of a dog’s life. Dogs with distemper typically remain contagious for at least two weeks, during which time they should be completely isolated from other animals. Dogs with neurological symptoms can remain infectious for four months or even longer. Preventing Distemper in DogsProper vaccination for distemper is crucial—it’s the best way to prevent this serious disease. Due to the fragile nature of the vaccine, it's important that a veterinarian perform these vaccinations to ensure quality control, safe handling (accounting for temperature-controlled shipping and storage), and proper administration. What Are the Side Effects of the Distemper Vaccine in Dogs?Vaccines stimulate the immune system in order to provide protection against the disease in question. Most dogs show no side effects from vaccination, but dogs can become sore at the injection site or develop a mild fever. In rare cases, allergic reactions (facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse) can occur. Does my dog need canine distemper vaccine?Because this disease can be fatal, prevention of infection in the first place is key. Distemper vaccination should be part of the standard puppy series of immunizations and boosters. Into adulthood, dogs should be vaccinated annually or every three years, depending on the veterinarian's recommendations as dogs age.
How often should a dog get a distemper shot?DAPP – (Canine Distemper) – Every 3 years. Rabies – Every 3 years.
What is the purpose of a distemper shot for dogs?A vaccine recommended for use in healthy dogs as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by canine distemper virus, adenovirus type 1 (hepatitis) and adenovirus type 2 (respiratory disease), canine parainfluenza virus, and canine parvovirus.
How common is distemper in dogs?How common is distemper? Canine distemper is seen worldwide, but because of the widespread use of vaccines, it is much less common than in the 1970s. It is still seen in populations with low vaccination rates and stray dogs. The virus may persist in recovered carrier dogs and wildlife, such as skunks and raccoons.
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