Distemper in dogs: causes, clinical picture and treatment
Distemper is an extremely dangerous viral disease that is common in dogs. The outcome depends on timely access to the veterinary clinic and proper treatment. Next, we will talk about the causes of the disease, symptoms and diagnosis. The only cause of the disease is the penetration of a contagious virus of the paramyxovirus family into the pet's body. Its distinctive features include a high rate of spread, a strong pathogenic effect on the dog's body, the possibility of damage to several organs or one specific system, and the persistence of virus activity in the physiological secretions of the affected animal for 7 days or more. When the virus enters the pet's body, it becomes its direct carrier. In other words, it can infect other animals. The incubation period lasts from 3 to 21 days, less often – from 60 days or more. Over time, dogs have developed immunity to the disease, and therefore the symptoms have changed over the past few years. If earlier it was possible to detect distemper by fever and severe intoxication, now atypical forms are more common. Sometimes the disease is accompanied by other infectious pathologies. Symptoms at an early stage: weakness and apathy, digestive problems, conjunctivitis – bilateral, serous, etc., the release of pus, which makes it difficult to open the eyes, photophobia, the pet's desire to stay in the shade and cool place. At a late stage, other symptoms are added: rhinophilia, cough – at first dry, later wet, nasal discharge – transparent or greenish.
Diagnosis of distemper is made exclusively by a veterinarian after a complete examination of the animal. To identify the disease, the doctor collects a clinical picture and evaluates the condition of the following organs: respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract – distemper is accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membranes, nose and eye membranes for the presence of purulent and serous secretions, skin – the disease most often affects the pads of the paws or the entire surface of the skin (accompanied by dandruff), CNS pathology is characterized by epilepsy, seizures, paralysis and other symptoms. Treatment The key to successful treatment is timely treatment at a veterinary clinic. It is easier to get rid of distemper in the early stages. After the examination, the veterinarian prescribes a comprehensive treatment, which consists of several techniques. Pathogenetic therapy is used to eliminate disorders related to the dog's vital activity. These include drugs to reduce intoxication, strengthen the body, medicines against inflammatory processes, etc. Symptomatic therapy – individual symptoms of pathology are weakened or completely eliminated. Painkillers, antipyretics, anticonvulsants, as well as drugs that support the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, stop the development of secondary microflora, etc. are prescribed. Substitution therapy is the replenishment of the body with necessary substances that have ceased to be produced or fully absorbed by the body. The veterinarian prescribes water-salt solutions, vitamins, dietary supplements, etc. Important! During treatment, it is necessary to follow all the doctor's recommendations, starting with taking medications and ending with caring for the dog. In addition to drug therapy, provide your pet with absolute peace, comfortable conditions and isolate it from other animals. Do not forget to carry out regular disinfection and wet cleaning.
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