Disclaimer – NO I am not a Veterinarian. This is my personal experience when I dealt with Canine Distemper in 1999 – 2003 and another case popped up in 2015 – I acquired alot of knowledge regarding this virus when there was an outbreak of this virus during these years on several native reservations. It was something I had never dealt with or heard of at that time but I certainly understand it now and never want to see it again. It was the most heart breaking virus to witness. Deadly for puppies and un-vaccinated dogs.

There have been several cases popping up in Southern Alberta. This is a devastating virus. Not only is it deadly, it is airborne. Confusing signs pop up. Maybe hard to diagnose. At times it may start off with a cough, or nasal discharge, presenting as kennel cough. So that is treated. The antibiotics may seem to be working, may clear up the nasal and eye discharge at first. Suddenly you notice the puppy squinting. Sensitive to light. They may still be eating and drinking at this time but weight loss is evident. Bloody diarrhea starts with a foul smell, so you test for parvo virus. It is negative. So you treat the puppy for the diarrhea. The eye squinting is still present. So strange. Lethargy sets in, sleeping all the time. Not much of an appetite. You then notice twitching on the top of their head. Their head is very sensitive. Blood work is done. You decide to hospitilize them. Maybe its a strange respiratory infection. All the while you are back and forth to the vet clinic. The puppy is extremely contagious. But you still do not know what is happening and perhaps the Veterinarian is still scratching their head trying to figure out what is going on with this dog or puppy. It can’t be Distemper! We don’t have it here?? Right?? WRONG. OH SO WRONG. Meanwhile more medication is given. The puppy is presenting mild seizures. Maybe it’s epilepsy? Prescribed seizure medication. Suddenly you notice the puppy appears to be grinding its teeth and notice foam coming out of their mouth!! What is happening 😳 The puppy is going down hill. Meanwhile this puppy is so contagious to every other dog. Remember this virus is airbourne, this is spreading to every single dog that dog is in contact with. If the infected dog coughs, or blows the mucous out of its nose, it goes into the air. The longer this Distemper Virus is alive in this puppy it is spreading. The outbreak has started. It is painful, it hurts and they are suffering terribly. There is no cure once the virus takes hold. Once the neurological signs start that is it, the virus has infected the dog, seizures start and there is no hope especially with a young puppy.

I witnessed this too many times. Beware. Its awful. Do not prolong this agony if you see this or you notice this in your shelter or rescue. It will have devastating effects.