Friends dog is sick with canine distemper?

Question

A couple I know got a 2 year old female pit bull from the local City animal shelter here two weeks ago and then it came down with distemper. She is still in the mucusal stage. But way better then last time I saw her. She is moving around now. The diagnosis was confirmed by a vet on Friday. I read online that adults dogs have a 50/50 chance of recovery. This particular shelter has a history of selling sick dogs and of course denies anything. The couple have already spent over $600 on vet bills. They are waiting it out. The dog could have seizures But hasn't shown any signs as of yet. I am wondering if anyone here has had an adult dog diagnosed with distemper and did it survive to live a life w/out any long term effects?

Mama Tex · Answer

We had a GSD who contracted distemper at 7 years old. She had a small twitch in her right ear from time to time (after she recovered)  but otherwise was very healthy and active till the ripe old age of 21 when we had to put her down due to cancer. Our vet never had a GSD live that long and was shocked that she did after her bought with Distemper.

? · Answer

I have not known any dogs that survived having this,
but I'm assuming that any dog that has such a severe condition early on in its life will end up with some severe long term effects, such as neurological problems. You will really just have to wait and see. I hope everything turns out well for you!

Anonymous · Answer

The eye and ear infections are bad enough, but being heartworm positive is sure to kill him if untreated. Call humane societies and spca in your area, ask if they have or know of low-cost veterinary clinics. If not, suggest they surrender the dog to a shelter where he might have the chance of being treated. Good luck.

ragapple · Answer

I knew someone who had one survive - it had mild neurological twitches for the rest of its life

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Friends dog is sick with canine distemper?

4 Answers