Distemper suspect in Kimmirut and Iqaluit
Dawn Ostrem
Northern News Services
Iqaluit (Jan 15/01) - Dogs in some Baffin Island communities continue to get sick in what is believed to be an outbreak of distemper.
Veterinarian Heather Priest said she had euthenized five dogs and bylaw officers in Kimmirut and Iqaluit have put down others.
"Until a period of at least two to three weeks has passed with no further dogs presenting these symptoms, I would still recommend that the public take appropriate precautions," said Priest.
The precautions include containing dogs, washing clothes and hands if in contact with sick dogs and making sure dogs' vaccinations are up to date.
Although many dogs in Iqaluit are vaccinated, even minimal contact with the virus can kill a dog.
Distempter has not been confirmed, but loss of appetite, low energy, discharge, vomiting, and seizures -- symptoms seen in the sick dogs -- are common signs of distemper.
