The Dangers of Skipping the Distemper Shot for Dogs
Canine distemper is a
highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects dogs and other mammals such as raccoons, ferrets, foxes, and skunks. Skipping the distemper vaccine exposes dogs to significant health risks, as there is currently no cure for this disease.
What Is Canine Distemper?
The disease is caused by the
canine distemper virus (CDV). It severely impacts a dog’s
respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Distemper is classified as a
core disease, meaning vaccination is considered essential for all dogs.
How Does Distemper Spread?
Distemper spreads through:
- Airborne particles: Coughing, sneezing, or barking by infected dogs
- Direct contact: Saliva, urine, and body fluids
- Contaminated objects: Shared bowls, toys, or bedding
- Wildlife: Exposure to infected animals like raccoons and foxes
Dogs infected with distemper can shed the virus for
several months, increasing community spread, especially in shelters or dog parks.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- Puppies younger than four months who haven't completed their vaccination series
- Unvaccinated adult dogs
- Dogs in high-risk environments: Boarding facilities, grooming salons, shelters
Symptoms of Canine Distemper
Symptoms start mildly but can quickly worsen. Early signs include:
- Eye and nose discharge
- Coughing and fever
- Lethargy and reduced appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhea
As the virus progresses to the nervous system, dogs may develop:
- Muscle twitching
- Seizures (including “chewing gum fits”)
- Partial or full paralysis
- Head tilt and walking in circles
- Thickened footpads and nose ("hard pad disease")
Infected dogs may also suffer
permanent neurological damage or even death. Studies estimate that
around 50% of dogs who contract the virus die.
Is There a Cure?
There is
no specific cure for canine distemper. Treatment involves supportive care, such as:
- Hydration therapy
- Medications to control vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures
- Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
Sick dogs must be
isolated to limit exposure to other animals.
The Importance of Vaccination
The single most effective way to protect a dog is through vaccination. The
DHPP, DA2PP, or DAPP vaccines are core vaccines that prevent distemper alongside other major canine diseases (adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza).
Recommended Vaccination Schedule
- Puppies: Start at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 2–4 weeks until 14–16 weeks of age
- Adults: Booster 12 months after puppy series, then every 3 years
Maternal antibodies can interfere with early vaccinations, so completing the full series is vital.
Other Preventive Measures
Besides vaccination, you can reduce your dog’s risk by:
- Keeping distance from dogs with unknown vaccine history
- Cleaning up feces and sanitizing shared spaces
- Choosing pet facilities that require up-to-date vaccines
- Avoiding parks or boarding centers until puppies complete their vaccine series
Vaccine Safety and Side Effects
Most dogs tolerate the DHPP vaccine well. Mild side effects may include:
- Tiredness and slight fever
- Injection site soreness
- Loss of appetite
Rare but severe allergic reactions require immediate veterinary attention and include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Difficult breathing
- Hives or swelling
Costs and Access to Vaccination
Each dose usually costs between
$25–$50. Veterinary wellness plans and pet insurance options may help reduce these costs over time.
Conclusion
Skipping your dog’s distemper vaccination is a serious gamble. The disease is
highly contagious, often deadly, and incurable. Vaccination provides nearly complete protection and ensures that your pet—and other animals—remain safe. Make sure your dog is up to date with its vaccinations to prevent unnecessary suffering.
