Dog Owners Beware Of This Tampa Bay Park
Dog owners beware of this Tampa Bay park. There is a warning out to all owners to be careful when taking your dog to one popular dog beach.
Canine distemper has been detected at the Fort DeSoto Park campground. According to the county’s website, dogs who have recently visited the area are getting sick. First of all, If you bring your dog to the park, do not leave food or water for them unattended outside.
Canine distemper is highly contagious and can be deadly for dogs that have not been vaccinated. Puppies and older dogs can be susceptible due to their age or a compromised immune system.
This is bad news for those of us who love to run and play with our dogs at the beach. Fort DeSoto is one of the best dog beaches in the area. One of those reason being you don’t have to have your dog on a leash. They can run free in water and play. Occasionally, dogs will wander up on the dunes but they are warning against it. Racoons in the area may be to blame for the outbreak of Canine distemper. This happened a few years back too at the same time, which is weird. My dog loves going to Fort DeSoto to play and run, but I think I will stay away for awhile.
Canine Distemper Facts
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) describes canine distemper as a “contagious and serious disease” that’s caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system of dogs. Firstly, the virus can weaken a dog’s immune system, putting them at risk of developing other infections. Secondly, dogs can develop symptoms right away. If you notice any discharge from the eyes and nose, fever, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting or diarrhea, you should seek vet care immediately.
It can also cause neurological symptoms as well. These include walking in circles or the inability to follow a straight path, head tilting, a lack of coordination, muscle twitches, jaw convulsions, drooling, seizures, and even partial to complete paralysis.
The virus can infect puppies and dogs through airborne exposure from sneezing, coughing or barking. It is spread through shared food and water bowls. Dogs shed the virus through respiratory droplets, saliva, or urine. Dogs can be contagious for several months. So, it’s a good idea to not share water bowls with other dogs at dog parks, etc.
Humans and cats are not affected.
How Can You Keep Your Pet From Getting Distemper
Dog owners need to get their pets vaccinated to prevent canine distemper. This vaccination is included in a combination vaccine that also protects against other common viruses. If you have a young puppy or older dog, it’s important you keep them away from areas that could be infected with Distemper, like Fort DeSoto park for now.
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