The risk of canine distemper multiplies in shelters during the summer

By Ashley Benavidez

Canine distemper, one of the most feared viral diseases among the canine population, is experiencing a worrying increase in its spread during the summer, especially in regions of the northern hemisphere. According to a study by the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL), the seasonal increase in dogs in shelters is creating an environment conducive to the transmission of this highly contagious and, in many cases, deadly virus.

Causes of the increase in infections in summer

The arrival of litters born in spring and the high canine mobility associated with adoptions are factors that contribute significantly to this increase. Overcrowding in shelters and the coexistence of dogs of different ages and origins facilitate the spread of the virus, even despite the existence of effective vaccines.

Shelters are not the only places at risk. According to specialists, the virus can also circulate in other common environments such as parks, dog daycares, kennels and during encounters between dogs. In these contexts, direct contact favors contagion, which increases the chances of an outbreak.

Global impact of canine distemper

Worldwide, the canine distemper virus has not been eradicated and continues to affect both dogs domestic and wild animals. This reality maintains it as a persistent threat to animal health. Prevention and early diagnosis are essential, since, although there is no cure, rapid detection can mitigate some of its most devastating effects.

Characteristics of canine distemper

Canine distemper is a virus that affects several systems in the body of dogs, including the respiratory, digestive, immune systems, and sometimes the nervous system, causing severe neurological symptoms. According to Cathy Campbell, a diagnostic veterinarian at TVMDL, the disease can begin as a simple respiratory discomfort, but can progress to severe pneumonia and other complications.

The virus invades lymphatic tissue, especially the tonsil area, allowing it to disperse to all organs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, transmission of canine distemper occurs primarily through respiratory secretions, although it is also spread through contaminated objects, increasing the risk of contagion.

Consequences and prevention

More than 50% of dogs affected by canine distemper do not survive the infection. Those who manage to recover can develop neurological sequelae such as persistent tremors, known as chorea. In addition to dogs, the virus can also infect ferrets, raccoons and wild cats, posing a danger to several animal species.

The MSD Veterinary Manual highlights that canine distemper is a disease with global distribution, especially present in areas where vaccination coverage is irregular. Therefore, it is crucial to keep your pet's vaccination schedule up to date to reduce their vulnerability to the virus.

Transmission and diagnosis

Transmission of canine distemper through respiratory secretions is the main route of infection. The viral particles they can be released into the air through coughing, sneezing or even barking, affecting nearby dogs. Direct contact with body fluids, such as eye secretions and urine, along with the use of contaminated objects such as feeders and blankets, also contributes to the spread of the virus.

An additional complication is that dogs can shed the virus before showing visible symptoms. According to Cathy Campbell, this makes the disease difficult to control, as spread can occur before clinical signs are evident. Once symptoms appear, the virus has already spread widely.

To differentiate canine distemper from other respiratory infections, laboratory diagnosis is essential. Tests such as PCR and antibody analysis are key to confirming the presence of the virus and allowing timely intervention.