Distemper in Dogs Adopted from Rescue Groups

Distemper is amongst one of the most contagious of the diseases that we have to deal with.  It does have an extremely effective vaccination.  In many parts of our country as well as many under privileged areas of the world vaccination is either not done due to lack of access, knowledge or financial resources.  Many rescue associations manned by very well meaning people work in these areas.  They will often vaccinate these animals.  However if the dogs have already contracted the disease, it may only manifest after adoption as was the case with “Bella” and a number of other animals from the same organization.  These smaller organizations will not have the resources to support you through the costs of rehabilitating and treatment of adoptees.  Distemper unfortunately but one of these diseases that we see especially from organizations bringing in pets from outside of Canadian borders.  Not only do these animals often arrive with a variety of conditions which may or may not be treatable, but frequently bring in diseases that can be transmitted to our Canadian pet population.  Malignant “kennel cough” was a big problem with “Katrina Dogs” as were tick borne diseases.  Lyme’s disease has been brought to Alberta through increase movement of dogs. “Tropical diseases” are a significant risk to us here in Alberta and the vectors( parasites capable of transporting disease) are present here, so once the organisms are introduced to Alberta through animal movement we pace a very real concern with transmission in our own pets.  This year for the first time Calgary dogs were found to have contracted tick borne disease without ever having left the city.  Fortunately with winters such as we experience ticks are somewhat contained.

At Bridlewood Veterinary Clinic, we continue to believe that we are best served by our own Calgary Humane Society (CHS) as far as quality of care, back-up and support for adopted pets.  All animals are fully vetted, vaccinated, de-wormed and identified by tattoo and microchip.  They are all sent home with pet insurance coverage.  Free post adoption examinations are provided by the majority of Calgary veterinarians to further support both the CHS and the pets and the new owners.