How do puppies get distemper? Can they catch it without dog contact?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on

  Distemper is highly contagious and is spread through the air, and by direct and indirect contact with an infected animal. Direct or close contact with an infected dog is the most common way it is spread. It's always recommend to keep a puppy away from unvaccinated dogs and dogs of unknown vaccine status until they are fully vaccinated themselves.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 25th, 2018

  Distemper is a highly contagious disease, and it's passed through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, through sharing of contaminated objects such as food and water bowls as well as toys and blankets, direct contact with an infected animal, and mother to offspring via the placenta. Rabies is transmitted primarily through a bite from a carrier of the disease. It can also be transmitted through a scratch or when infected saliva makes contact with mucous membranes or an open, fresh wound.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful