Two cases of canine distemper reported in Kingsland
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Hill Country Humane Society is urging pet owners to get their pets vaccinated after two cases of canine distemper were confirmed in owned pets in Kingsland, according to its social media post.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, or AVMA, canine distemper is a serious disease that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of dogs. The disease spreads through airborne exposure from an infected dog or animal, according to the AVMA.
According to the AVMA, clinical signs of distemper in dogs include:
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
- Fever
- Coughing
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Neurological signs include:
- Walking in circles, unable to follow a straight path
- Head tilt
- Lack of coordination
- Muscle twitches
- Convulsions with jaw-chewing movements (“chewing gum fits”) and drooling
- Seizures
- Partial or complete paralysis
In August 2023, Austin Animal Center and the Georgetown Animal Shelter reported a rise in distemper among dogs. AAC said at the time that the virus does not survive well in the environment, but there is still potential risk of spread via contaminated items, like bowls and toys.
The best way owners can protect their pets from canine distemper is through vaccination, according to the AVMA.
“The distemper vaccine starts providing protection in as little as 15 minutes,” the Hill Country Humane Society wrote in its social media post.
The Hill Country Humane Society’s shelter pets have not been affected, according to its social media post. The Hill Country Humane Society is isolating and vaccinating upon intake to protect its animals.
The Hill Country Humane Society recommends that pet owners get their pets vaccinated now, especially if they live in Kingsland.
Erica Pauda contributed to this report
