Best Preventative for Canine Distemper - Vacination

You may have recently seen information about a Canine Distemper (CDV) outbreak in raccoons found in Wheatridge, CO. The good news is that effective vaccines have virtually eliminated CDV in domestic animals. However, because there is no approved vaccine for wildlife, Canine Distemper is endemic to the raccoon population throughout the Front Range. For many years, West Ridge has seen raccoons with distemper and last year we saw a few cases in the local coyote population. It should be stressed that Canine Distemper can strike wildlife, dogs, and ferrets. There is no danger to humans or our feline friends from CDV. Additionally, all dogs who have received the full series of puppy vaccinations and receive a booster vaccination every three years are very safe from infection.

Canine Distemper is spread through respiratory secretions via cough and runny nose, and other bodily fluids. It is most often contracted through breathing in the airborne viral particles. Symptoms of CDV include green, goopy eyes; green discharge from a runny nose; lethargy; and disorientation. Since wildlife infected with distemper are often lethargic and disoriented, it becomes easy for our pets to get close; and potentially, if not vaccinated, contract CDV. Wild animals are generally unapproachable by humans and quickly retreat when approached. Therefore, it is important to steer clear of any wildlife that allows you to approach. It is probably a sign that they are ill and pose a significant danger to your companion and yourself. If you see a lethargic, confused, or disoriented wild animal, stay away and call your local animal control office. The Greeley Animal Control Office can be reached at (970) 350-9600.

For more information regarding Canine Distemper, check out this online brochure provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association: What you should know about canine distemper