Canine Distemper

Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a very contagious virus that can cause severe disease in dogs that are not fully vaccinated. CDV does not infect humans.

Shelters are particularly vulnerable to CDV outbreaks because many dogs who enter do not have protective immunity, particularly dogs younger than one year. IAS vaccinates animals at entry, but protective immunity is not immediate.

Irving Animal Services recommends all pet owners ensure their pets' vaccinations are up-to-date. 

  1. What is Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)?
  2. How do I protect my dog from CDV?
  3. How is CDV spread?
  4. How is CDV treated?
  1. Found a Dog
  2. Rehoming a Dog

What Should I Do if I Find a Loose Dog?

If the dog can be approached safely:

  • Check for an ID tag. If an ID tag is found, contact the owner to reunite the dog with its family.
  • If no ID tag is found and you cannot provide temporary care, leave the dog where it is and notify Irving Animal Services at (972) 721-2256. Provide the officer with a detailed description of the dog and the location.
  • If no ID tag is found and you can provide temporary care:
    1. Take the dog to a veterinary clinic or bring it to the Irving Animal Care Campus to check for a microchip. If a microchip is found, contact the owner to reunite the dog with its family.
    2. If there is no ID tag and no chip, submit a Found Pet report, and post notices in your area and on social media to help find the dog’s owner.

If you cannot safety approach the dog, notify Animal Services at (972) 721-2256. Provide the officer with a detailed description of the dog and the location.

  • Don’t chase the animal or pursue it if it moves away. This may cause the animal to leave the area, get hit by a car or even bite someone.
  • Don’t feed the animal. Animal Services Officers often use food and treats to encourage animals to approach. Feeding the animals makes it much more difficult for our officers to capture them and get them to safety. If the animal is elusive and a humane trap is set, the animal is more likely to enter if it is interested in the food inside the trap.