Kern County Animal Services is offering free vaccines today to help you protect your furry friend from a potentially deadly virus.
Last week, KCAS officials said at least 30 dogs tested positive for distemper, a virus closely related to the measles virus. Distemper is airborne, but cannot be transmitted from animals to humans, according to KCAS. Animal officials say distemper is potentially deadly with no known cure, but it can be prevented through vaccination.
Symptoms of distemper include crust or green discharge from the nose and eyes, really high or low temperatures and diarrhea.
If you recently adopted a dog and it is showing signs of the illness, contact KCAS immediately at 868-7100.
As a result, KCAS is hosting free shots for city or county residents, for parvo and distemper. The clinics will be held the next two Wednesdays, Sept. 19 and Sept. 26 in the evening from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at 3951 Fruitvale Avenue.
KCAS shared the following prevention tips:
- Vaccinate your pets, especially against illnesses like Distemper and Parvovirus that are endemic to Kern County
- If you are intending to surrender a dog, have the dog vaccinated several days prior to bringing the dog to any shelter
- If your own animal begins to display signs of illness, seek immediate veterinary care
- Please consider donations of dog toys and treats to keep the dogs being held for observation as comfortable and happy as possible
