As a result of seeing a higher-than-usual number of distemper outbreaks this year, the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) has issued a community health alert to all pet owners. States such as Florida, Ohio and Georgia have also seen earlier-than-usual occurrences of this dangerous disease and extra caution is urged nationally.  Typically, distemper outbreaks arise in the spring due to an increased number of puppies, however this year, signs of the disease are appearing much earlier.

Two New Strains of Distemper
There is evidence to suggest that two new strains of distemper indigenous to Europe have made their way to the U.S. While the typical incubation period for distemper is typically 1-2 weeks, the new strains may have even longer incubation periods.

Worse, while traditionally distemper was thought of as a disease that primarily affected puppies who have not had all of their “puppy” shots; these strains are now appearing in elderly pets with unconfirmed vaccination histories.

It’s December, and January isn’t too far away. With national average temperatures for this time of the year being just a hair above freezing, you’d probably rather sit inside with a warm mug of cocoa and a good book than gear up for a walk in the cold air. But if you’ll just take a peek over the edge of those pages, you might see a set of sad, pleading eyes just begging for some exercise and excitement! They can’t read, afterall.

While walking your dog in the cold weather can be tricky, it is doable. If you can bundle up and go outside for 10-15 minutes without developing frostbite or getting lost in a blinding snow storm, then they probably can too. Just follow a few guidelines and both of you can safely get some exercise and fresh air.