My dog has distemper and is paralyzed. What's his long-term outlook?

Question

2 years ago, i sent him to Vet clinic because he had sticky eyes, allergy & he's having seizures. The Vet then diagnosed him with distemper & said that there's no cure. After a few weeks, he's paralyzed from his hips to his back legs. He had open wounds on his hips. i love him so much that i continue to take care of him and feed him. As of now, he eats a lot and that made me happy. He crawls with frontlegs. No open wounds, just little scratches. Is he goint to survive w/o expensive treatment? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 35.2 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry that Bruno suffered from distemper! Your vet was right that there is no cure for distemper, and about 50% of dogs who come down with it pass away. It's fortunately that Bruno was one of the lucky ones to survive, but dogs who do survive often have lasting effects such as the paralysis you are seeing. I would recommend speaking to your vet about seeing if a doggie wheelchair can be made or purchased for Bruno. Dragging his legs on the ground can easily lead to wounds on his legs which can then get infected. A wheelchair will support him and make it easier for him to get around safely. Dogs with distemper typically do not have normal life spans due to the lasting effects of the disease, so to answer your question, Bruno will survive but for how long is truly unknown. I'm sorry I don't have a more definitive answer for you :-(

My dog has distemper and is paralyzed. What's his long-term outlook?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share