EL PASO, Texas— If your dog is coughing, sneezing or has a runny nose, it could have a new and more aggressive strain of the canine flu. Outbreaks have occurred in Ohio, Illinois, Alabama, Rhode Island and now Texas. Veterinarian Amy Starr said there h
Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services have diagnosed 7 dogs with distemper since March 1, 2016.
Canine Distemper is a very prevalent, highly contagious disease caused by a virus. The virus may be spread by contact with mucous and watery discharge from the eyes and noses of infected dogs. Infection may also occur from exposure to urine, fecal matter, and through partials in the air. Symptoms include but are not limited to squinting, congestion of the eyes, eye discharges, weight loss, vomiting, nasal discharge, poor appetite, and/or diarrhea sometimes may occur.
Prevention is easily accomplished by proper vaccination. Dr. Amy Starr recommends beginning vaccines as early as 6 weeks of age. A series of 3 vaccines given over a 3-month period of time must be given to build proper immunity. To maintain immunity for adult dog’s vaccines must be given annually.
Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services are now offering FREE new pet preventative care exams until April 30, 2016 to encourage all pet owners to get their pets in for the DHPP vaccine (additional charge).
For more information, visit our website at www.pnhvet.com or call us at 915-584-4491. We look forward to hearing from you and meeting your four-legged family member(s)!