My dog has distemper. What can I do to help them recover at home?

If your dog has been diagnosed with distemper virus you definitely need to seek veterinary care immediately - this is not something that can be treated at home. Distemper has a high mortality rate and is highly contagious. I would not recommend starting antibiotics without the direct supervision of a veterinarian who has performed a physical exam.

I am sorry to hear about red. It is possible that red could have distemper but it is really rare in the United States. If he has ever been vaccinated before distemper is not as likely. Unfortunately distemper is very fatal. Most dogs start to have seizures that cannot be controlled. I would be concerned about possible infection, parasites or neurological disease. I would recommend a pet coach consult to discuss more information in detail but red should really see a veterinarian. Hope he feels better

I'm sorry Kiku has distemper. Supportive care is the only treatment available for this disease, which can include IV fluids, anti-seizure medications, and medications to help control vomiting and diarrhea. Unfortunately about 80% of puppies who get distemper will die from the disease. His best chance for survival is hospitalization with a vet, so I would take him into one immediately.

Unfortunately there is no specific treatment for it and I would recommend to have added some antibiotics prescribed to fight against possible secondary infections. In terms of food, Canine recovery diet or Canine a/d are very energetic type of diets (usually very palatable as well) which are recommended in these situations. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Unfortunately, distemper is a seriously debilitating disease and there is no cure. We can only try to limit the damage done by the virus. This often entails nerve and brain damage, and upper respiratory problems. The upper respiratory problems can often be alleviated, however the nerve damage is permanent. When it is mild, the dog can have a good quality of life. At this time supportive care is the only option and you will have to wait it out and see what damage will be permanent. It is a nasty disease, and I am very sorry your pup is affected.

Unfortunately, with distemper there is not much you can do for them. There is no treatment, only supportive care which is already being done. If it progresses to the neurological form, the chance of recovery is minimal. They are doing all the treatment they can based on your description. Nothing else can really be done other than trying to force feed him, which many animals do not take to having done. If they want to try something, I would recommend force feeding either canned dog food or human meat flavored baby foods (in a jar). I am really sorry that his has happened to Rex. Distemper can be easily prevented with vaccination. So, let your friends know that in future all their dogs need to be vaccinated. As puppies they get a series of 3 vaccinations and then as an adult it should be boostered every year. Below is a link to an excellent article about canine distemper. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/distemper-in-dogs

IT is very possible that Cookie has distemper but I will say it is not very common in the united states. I have seen a few cases but they were from rescue dogs in over crowded situations. I would first make sure Cookie has a good exam by a vet to confirm that distemper is the problem. Other disease can look like distemper for example low blood sugar and a liver shunt in small and young dogs will cause seizures. Typically distemper causes neurologic disease and the best way to help is with supportive care with your vet. This includes hospitalization with medications for seizures and muscle relaxation. until the patient recovers even possibly supplemental feedings. I hope that helps and hopefully it is not distemper and Cookie will make a fast recovery