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Dogs test positive for canine distemper
by The Daily Herald
Posted: Jun 18, 2009 13:56 UTC
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~ Twenty dogs have died in recent weeks ~
ST. EUSTATIUS - Two dogs in Statia have tested positive for canine distemper, a disease that kills many dogs that are infected.
“We have been able to determine the source of the illness. These dogs have been located all over the island. Symptoms include runny nose and eyes, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever, dehydration, excessive salivation, coughing and/or laboured breathing, loss of appetite, and weight loss,” Shelley Works of St. Eustatius Animal Welfare Foundation (SEAWF) explained Wednesday.
Other symptoms include involuntary muscle twitching and seizures.
Veterinarian Dr. Gary Swanston has found high concentrations of bacteria in the animals’ stools and so believes the cause to be bacterial, not poisoning, she said.
As this is the first time that cases of canine distemper have been seen on Statia, every step should be taken to ensure that the problem does not escalate out of control, she continued.
“If your dog has been vaccinated, then it has probably had a vaccination for distemper. Check your records to be sure. If not, please schedule an appointment for a vaccination by calling 318-4150. We need to know how many dogs need the vaccinations because Dr. Swanston may need to order more. We encourage you to do this soon,” Works advised dog owners, adding that more than 20 dogs had become ill and many had died in the past few weeks.
It was essential for owners to seek immediate treatment for dogs displaying any of canine distemper’s symptoms. Dogs that are treated quickly have a good chance of recovery.
Noting that dogs that died had experienced problems for several days before receiving treatment, Works advised persons to call SEAWF at 318-4150 to get help or Dr. Swanston's office at 542-0111. Both numbers have been posted on the foundation’s website: www.seawf.com.
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