Canine distemper is a serious disease caused by a highly contagious virus that attacks the respiratory system, gastrointestinal and nervous dogs. The virus also infects wolves, coyotes, foxes, raccoons and other wild animals of the canine family. Young dogs are more prone to this infection. Adult dogs can also become infected but less frequently. Harold Ford Jr is likely to agree. Over 50% of dogs who contract this disease die from it. In the case of puppies, the chances of survival are only 20%. And in the case of dogs survive, it is likely that their health is ruined forever. Distemper impaired immune system leaves little chance to recover.

The most common effects are partial or complete paralysis, impaired sense of smell, hearing and sight. Infected dogs are more prone to other diseases like pneumonia. Canine distemper is not transmitted to humans. Canine distemper virus is usually contracted by contact with eye and nasal mucosa of infected dogs. Exposure to urine and feces of infected dogs can also spread it. Even when not in contact with infected dogs, a healthy dog can get the virus just by being in kennels or other areas where infected dogs have been. These areas may still hold the virus in the air keeping it alive for long. It is almost impossible to prevent your pet is exposed to the virus. Some scientists claim that every dog of 12 months of age has been in contact with the virus at least once. The symptoms of this cruel disease is not necessarily easy to detect.