Distemper Could Lead to Pneumonia
The Canine Distemper Virus is a highly contagious, often fatal, viral disease that affects vulnerable dogs and puppies. Like any other illness, it causes the immune system to become weak, making infected canines more susceptible to developing secondary illnesses and infections. What makes Canine Distemper so dangerous is that it has three different stages that affect three different systems in the body, including the respiratory system. It causes respiratory issues, such as sneezing, coughing, nasal secretions, and in more severe cases, pneumonia.
What’s Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a condition that happens when the lungs become inflamed. The inflammation happens as a response to a foreign body that has made its way to the lungs, causing inflammatory cells and fluid to accumulate inside the organ, as well as the airways and other related biological structures.
What Causes Pneumonia in Dogs with Distemper?
Given their vulnerability, dogs with Distemper often fall victims to secondary viral, fungal, or in the case of pneumonia, bacterial infections. The two most common causes of pneumonia in dogs are the bacterial organisms Streptococcus zooepidemicus and Bordetella bronchiseptica. However, other bacteria that are capable of surviving without oxygen may also cause the condition to develop.
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Pneumonia?
How Is Pneumonia Diagnosed?
How Is Pneumonia Treated?
Since pneumonia has multiple causative agents and causes a variety of symptoms to appear, your dog’s treatment will also depend on those two things. For instance, once your veterinarian determines the culprit for your dog’s pneumonia, they’ll prescribe an antibiotic that’s effective against that specific pathogen.
On the other hand, if your dog is suffering from dehydration, fever, cough, anorexia, and excessive weight loss, then they may need to be hospitalized and receive supplemental fluids, as well as electrolytes. If your dog has trouble breathing, your veterinarian may suggest oxygen therapy to help them feel more comfortable throughout the healing process.
How Can I Prevent My Dog from Developing Pneumonia?