Distemper is spread to unvaccinated dogs and dogs with weakened immune systems just like the common cold - through contact with bodily secretions of infected dogs or wildlife, such as raccoons. Sneezing, coughing, nasal secretions, and saliva can all spread distemper. Unvaccinated dogs can also get distemper through sharing water bowls, touching noses, or being in the same place at the same time as dogs or wildlife with distemper. With distemper, prevention is key. Distemper is very difficult to control among unvaccinated dog populations because dogs infected with distemper can take up to 14 days to begin showing symptoms, however, they can begin spreading the illness to other dogs during that incubation period.