The Trinidad and Tobago Veterinary Association has issued a warning on September 17, 2026 about a surge in canine distemper cases across the country, urging dog owners to stay alert and seek timely veterinary care.
The virus is transmitted through droplets, and infected dogs may continue shedding the virus for several months, increasing the risk of spread within households and communities.
Early symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, nasal or eye discharge, and lethargy. Dogs may also develop diarrhea and respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, and runny noses.
In more severe cases, neurological symptoms can appear, such as muscle twitching, seizures, circling, head tilting, and difficulty walking. The mortality rate can reach 50% in adult dogs and 80% in puppies, and there is currently no cure—treatment is supportive only.
Owners are advised to monitor their pets closely, keep dogs indoors when sick, and consult a veterinarian immediately if any of the listed symptoms arise. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
