A serious reminder about the importance of vaccinating. Canine Distemper has been found in the South.
A recent case in Southland diagnosed a puppy with the life-threatening disease – Canine Distemper. This disease was considered to have potentially been eradicated in New Zealand, due to diligence in vaccinating young dogs.
Canine Distemper is a traumatic and life-threatening disease for our canines, which is transmitted from animal to animal (particularly mustelids such as stoats and ferrets). More importantly, it is completely preventable through vaccination.
What does Canine Distemper look like in dogs?
- Fever
- Lack of appetite
- Nose and eye discharge
- Depression
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Neurological signs e.g. seizures, head tilt
There is no targeted therapy against Canine Distemper, so prevention is crucial. The disease can be devastating, especially as it is easily preventable.
We strongly recommend vaccinating all puppies and also checking the vaccination status of your older dogs. Contact us on 0800 VETSOUTH if you have any questions, our experienced staff will be happy to assist.
Want to read more on essential vaccinations? The SPCA has some great information check it out HERE.
- Oliver Young
