EDINBURG – Hidalgo County Health officials encourage pet owners to vaccinate their pets against Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) to prevent the deadly virus from spreading.  

Canine Distemper is a contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs.

It can be transferred from animal to animal by coughing, sneezing, or sharing a water or food bowl. This disease is not a threat to humans.

Common observable signs in canines include discharge from the eyes that appears watery or like greenish mucus, sneezing and nasal discharge, coughing, fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

As the disease progresses, the distemper virus invades the necrological system and may cause twitching, “chewing gum” or “fly-biting” fits or full-blown convulsions.

Contact between a diseased raccoon, skunk, coyote, fox, or ferret, or if your dog eats their droppings, could also lead to contraction of CDV.

Key points for residents on disease and animal interactions:

·        Make sure your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations.

·        Keep your dogs on a leash when walking them.

·        Do not let pets interact with wildlife.

·        Do not let wildlife frequent your backyard.

·        Avoid keeping water and food bowls outside to limit possible contamination.

·        Teach children not to touch any wildlife.

The CDV vaccine costs $10 to $20 and also prevents against other diseases, such as parvo. Discuss with your veterinarian the precautions to take before allowing another dog to enter your home.