Keeping your dog vaccinated is an important part of keeping them healthy. Even if your dog spends most of their life indoors, they’ll still be at risk of canine distemper. It’s primarily transmitted from other dogs, but it can also be carried inside on inanimate objects like shoes, leashes, and toys. That’s why most vets recommend it as one of the first shots a puppy should receive. Without vaccination, the distemper virus can attack your dog’s skin, nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and even their brain. If not treated and diagnosed quickly, the infection can turn fatal. Plus, you could pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for treatment. Dog insurance could help cover some or all of that cost, but keeping your dog vaccinated is still the best option for both their health and your wallet.