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Can vaccinated dog pass distemper to unvaccinated dogs after contact?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Can a vaccinated dog whom came into close contact with a puppy with distemper can he carry the distemper virus and pass it to unvaccinated dogs?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dana Koch, VMD, MLAS

Veterinarian

Published on December 8th, 2014

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.

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15Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Although the virus does not last long on its own in the environment, it can be carried on feet, hands or fur and could conceivably infect an unvaccinated dog. An infected dog should be isolated and treated if possible. The environment can be disinfected using commonly used disinfectants.

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