Unit 1: Canine Vaccinations Part 2

VTHT 2201 Fall 2026

Core canine vaccines

• DA2PP (DHPP)

• Rabies

DA2PP

• Distemper

• Adenovirus (CAV-2)

  • can also be abbreviated as H (hepatitis)

• Parainfluenza

• Parvovirus

• can also have other components like leptospirosis, coronavirus, lyme

Distemper can occur in which species

• dogs

• wolves

• coyotes

• foxes

• ferrets

• mink

• skunk

• raccoons

• more

Canine distemper virus (CDV) clinical signs

• initial signs: fever, anorexia, mild serous nasal discharge

• 20-50% recover from this stage

• if worsens: mucopurulent oculonasal discharge, coughing, vomiting, pustules, hard pads, dental enamel hypoplasia

• can progress to nervous system: twitching, seizures, “chewing gum fits”

  • neurologic form usually fatal

Transmission of distemper

• oronasal route from aerosolized virus

• shed through ALL bodily secretions for 4 weeks to 4 months after initial onset of clinical signs

  • should not be around other puppies or unvaccinated dogs for 3 months after recovery

• may survive up to 24 hours in warm, sunny environments

• killed by most disinfectants

• resistant to cold

distemper incubation period

Usually 1-2 weeks but up to 5 weeks

Distemper diagnosis

Diagnosis is often based on clinical signs, and history of exposure. Laboratory tests such as PCR or serology can be done but it is not typical.

Distemper treatment

Treatment may include supportive care, fluid therapy, and medications to manage symptoms and prevent secondary infections.