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My unvaccinated dog has distemper. How can I help her survive?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | 2 months and 7 days old | 1.35 lbs

My dog has distemper I know this is life threatening is there anything that I can do to make her survive with this virus. She doesnt have any vaccine. Because we're about to deworm her first but then she had this virus. Please help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on November 5th, 2017

IT is very possible that Cookie has distemper but I will say it is not very common in the united states. I have seen a few cases but they were from rescue dogs in over crowded situations. I would first make sure Cookie has a good exam by a vet to confirm that distemper is the problem. Other disease can look like distemper for example low blood sugar and a liver shunt in small and young dogs will cause seizures. Typically distemper causes neurologic disease and the best way to help is with supportive care with your vet. This includes hospitalization with medications for seizures and muscle relaxation. until the patient recovers even possibly supplemental feedings. I hope that helps and hopefully it is not distemper and Cookie will make a fast recovery

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