Parvovirus is an infection that first hit the canine population in
the late 1970s. This dangerous virus can cause severe illness and
even death if it is not diagnosed early and treated properly.
The virus is transmitted via dog feces. It can travel on your
dog's feet, contaminated shoes, and other objects. Your dog
does not need to have direct contact with an infected dog to become
infected with this virus. Canine parvovirus can live for months in
the
environment, withstanding extreme heat, extreme cold, and even
snow.
Dogs of all ages are susceptible to parvovirus, but because their
immune systems are immature, puppies between the ages of 2 and 6
months, particularly at risk. Rottweilers and Doberman pinschers
have been found to be more sensitive to the virus than other
breeds. It is important to note that the only species that can be
affected by parvovirus is dogs; the infection cannot be transmitted
to humans or any other animal species, including cats.
Diagnosing Parvovirus
Parvovirus attacks the lining of the dog's intestine, causing
dogs and puppies to be unable to absorb liquids or nutrients.
The first signs of parvovirus include a high fever, lethargy,
depression, and decreased appetite. Secondary signs typically
include severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
Parvovirus infections are diagnosed based on the presence
of clinical signs, blood tests, and fecal tests. Generally
speaking, it
takes 7 to 14 days from the time a dog is exposed to parvovirus
until he starts showing signs and tests positive for the
disease.
Will My Dog Survive Parvovirus?
The prognosis
for dogs with parvovirus is better when the virus is detected and
treated early. Without intense treatment, victims of parvovirus
will die of dehydration.
Treatment typically consists of:
• Intravenous fluids to combat dehydration
• Antibiotics to reduce or control secondary infections
• Antiinflammatory drugs to help make your dog more
comfortable
Other medications may also be prescribed to lessen the diarrhea and
vomiting.
Preventing Parvovirus
The best way to keep your dog safe from parvovirus is to vaccinate
him. Puppies receive three parvovirus vaccinations to start,
usually at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Booster shots are then given
to maintain your pet's immunity. It is important to discuss
vaccination schedules with your veterinarian to ensure that your
dog is protected.
If your pet becomes infected, he will quickly become contagious to
other dogs.
To prevent spread of the virus, follow these guidelines:
• Keep your dog isolated from all other dogs for at least a
month after complete recovery.
• Clean up all the stools in your yard immediately.
• Thoroughly disinfect all food bowls, floors, and water
bowls with a dilute bleach solution (one-half cup of chlorine
bleach mixed in 1 gallon of water). Most standard disinfectants
will not kill parvovirus, so the use of chlorine bleach is
recommended.
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