Local animal welfare groups and veterinary clinics are taking swift action as distemper case rise in Corpus Christi. Earlier this month, Animal Care Services (ACS) received a report from a resident on Molina Drive about sick dogs in the neighborhood, leading to the discovery of 12 canines, some showing signs of illness.
Immediate Response to Sick Dogs
On November 11, ACS responded to the concerned resident’s report and discovered a troubling situation on Molina Drive. Among the 12 dogs found at the property, two were severely affected. The owner promptly surrendered custody of these dogs, and ACS took them to Oso Creek Veterinary Clinic for urgent care.
Although they were treated with antibiotics and monitored at the ACS facility, their condition worsened within 24 hours. A veterinarian confirmed that the dogs were suffering from canine distemper, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease.
Community Awareness and Prevention Efforts
To prevent the spread of distemper, ACS launched a community outreach campaign. Block walks and flyer distributions were organized to educate residents about the disease, its symptoms, and preventive measures. ACS informed local veterinary clinics and rescue organizations to stay vigilant.
People Assisting Animal Control (PAAC) took further steps by hosting a vaccination drive in the Molina neighborhood. This initiative aimed to protect pets in the area and reassure concerned owners about their animals’ safety.
Cheryl Martinez, PAAC founder, emphasized the importance of acting swiftly:
“We’re trying to get a handle on it before it starts to spread because this disease can spread to other animals in our communities.”
Understanding Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a viral disease that attacks dogs’ respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Puppies under four months old and unvaccinated dogs are particularly vulnerable. Though cats are not at risk, other animals like raccoons and skunks can contract the virus.
Dr. Beth Maddox of Animal Medical Corpus Christi explained the symptoms pet owners should watch for:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Yellow eye or nose discharge
- Coughing
- Neurological issues
She reassured residents that her clinic had not seen any cases. Still, she warned that the disease could have lasting effects on infected dogs.
Protecting Your Pets
Dr. Maddox stressed the importance of vaccination:
“I would definitely try to avoid exposure to stray dogs or dogs with unknown vaccine status. If you’re getting regular wellness care from a veterinarian, your dog is most likely already protected.”
Vaccination remains the most effective defense against canine distemper. Pet owners must stay current with all immunizations to ensure their furry companions remain healthy and safe. If your pet is not up to date with their vaccinations, we urge you to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Taking Action
As Corpus Christi faces this distemper case, the collaboration between ACS, PAAC, and local veterinarians highlights the community’s commitment to animal welfare. Residents are urged to monitor their pets closely, report any signs of illness, and seek vaccination services if needed.
Together, these efforts aim to control the spread of this severe disease and protect the city’s animal population.