Can a vaccinated dog catch distemper from an infected puppy?

If she has been fully vaccinated then the likelihood of her getting distemper is low. If you have any concerns, however, have her examined by your veterinarian. She may just have a viral respiratory infection. Your vet can do a physical examination, run labwork, and prescribe medications, if needed to treat.

Vaccinated animals are at a very low risk of acquiring distemper virus and passing it on to other dogs. This is because the virus cannot live without fresh secretions; it is inactivated in minutes outside the dog's body. The infected dog typically infects other dogs via coughing infected respiratory secretions though the virus is shed in most other body secretions, including urine. A dog with distemper, even if recovered from the virus can shed the infection for up to 2-3 months so I would restrict any future contact and monitor for any abnormal clinical signs, including coughing or nasal discharge.

There is always a chance that Shadow could get infected. It is not likely since there was no direct contact. I suggest you get Shadow updated on his vaccinations as soon as possible so you won't have to worry in the future. ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952099 )

Thank you for submitting your question. It should be fine to visit. I would change your clothes as soon as you come home and could even shower before interacting with your own dogs. Being adult dogs and fully vaccinated their risk would be minimal. I certainly would not take your dogs to your dogs to your friend's house though. I hope this information helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Charlie. Puppies are typically vaccinated for the distemper virus. However, some are never taken to a veterinarian. So I would certainly recommend having Charlie vaccinated now. He would need an initial vaccine and then a booster in 3-4 weeks. This will ensure that he is adequately protected. I hope this information helps!

Your puppy can contract distemper by coming in contact with other dogs that are infected, objects that have been contaminated by infected dogs, or it can be transmitted by wildlife such as raccoons.

Unfortunately, it takes up to 2 weeks for a vaccination to be effective, so vaccinating the exposed puppies after exposure, will not help protect them from their previous exposure, but may help protect them against future exposure. I am including more information about distemper below. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952099 Since distemper is very contagious, I would not recommend having the exposed puppies around any other dogs if they are potentially contagious. You can call your local VetCo clinic to determine if they are able to accommodate the puppies in a safe manner, so that other dogs are not exposed. You can find your local location here. https://www.vetcoclinics.com/services-and-clinics/clinic-locations-and-schedules/ Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.