Canine distemper is worldwide fatal disease of domestic dogs, foxes, raccoons, wolves, and skunks. It has also affected lions and tigers in wild animal compounds in Los Angeles County.

The virus infects the whole body and suppresses the immune system. Animals infected with Distemper can spread the virus through direct contact with other animals or by contaminating the environment with infectious discharges. Infected animals become very sick, and develop nasal and ocular discharges, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, neurologic symptoms, and may die. Dogs may be protected from this disease through vaccination.
 

Distemper in Dogs