Jenny has distemper. This is mostly likely what the puppies rescued from Hreša Shelter died of (If you don’t know the story of this shelter, here it is: Part One – Part Two – Part Three).

Distemper is a virus that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, respiratory and central nervous systems, as well as the conjunctival membranes of the eye. Serious infections are most often seen in puppies or adolescent dogs. Puppies younger than seven weeks, born to mothers who haven’t been vaccinated against the virus, are extremely susceptible. Once infected, puppies are severely weakened. Often the virus travels to the brain, causing seizures, shaking and trembling. A weakened immune system leaves an infected dog open to secondary infections like pneumonia.

There is currently no available medication that can destroy the virus that causes canine distemper. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. Veterinarians can offer intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and antibiotics to ward off secondary infections while the infected dog builds up his immune response. Some dogs are able to survive the infection, while for others canine distemper can be fatal.

Little Frida also had a second vet examination… for her story go here. She’s looking better. I don’t yet have news of the examination but will update this page as soon as I can.

Please send your love and prayers for Jenny and Frida. Both these dogs will need forever homes, if you can help contact me.

Update: December 24, 2012
Jenny is doing better, she has put on some weight. But I’m sad to say that Frida died yesterday of distemper. R.I.P. Little one.

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This site is dedicated to Vučko. Read his story and don’t let him have suffered and died in vain. Please help the stray dogs and cats in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The situation there is utterly dire, Vučko is but one amongst many horrifically abused animals. Go here to find out how to help them.  Money is needed for food, medicine and foster housing.  Even just one dollar or one euro will help.