Parvovirus is a highly contagious and often deadly virus that spreads between dogs through contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects, such as bowls or toys. Our veterinarians in Grand Prairie take todays post to share essential information about parvovirus to help you keep your four-legged friend healthy.
The Spread of Canine Parvovirus 'Parvo'
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes extreme gastrointestinal symptoms in puppies and unvaccinated dogs of all ages. The virus is spread through traces of feces from infected dogs. Asymptomatic dogs that are infected but have not yet begun to exhibit symptoms, dogs with symptoms, and dogs that have recently recovered from the condition can spread Parvo.
The disease is so infectious that a person who has unknowingly been in contact with an infected dog can pass the virus on to puppies and other dogs simply through touch. Meaning that a loving pat on the head could become the start of a life-threatening illness.
Other common sources of contamination are leashes, bowls, toys, and bedding.
How Parvovirus Attacks Your Dog's Body
Parvo is a disease that primarily affects the stomach and small intestines. The virus destroys healthy cells in these areas and hinders the absorption of vital nutrients. In puppies,
Parvo also targets the bone marrow and lymphopoietic tissues, crucial immune system components, and can often affect the heart.
Why Puppies Are Susceptible to Parvo
If the mother is fully vaccinated against Parvo, the puppies will inherit antibodies from the mother, which will protect them against the virus for the first six weeks of their lives.
However, as the puppies begin to wean at about six weeks of age, their immune systems weaken, and the young pups become susceptible to the disease.
Vets urge pet parents to begin vaccinating their puppy against Parvo at six weeks of age when the puppy begins to wean, and the antibodies from the mother are no longer available to protect it.
However, a young dog isn't protected against the disease until it has received all three Parvo vaccinations. Puppies are most likely to catch Parvo during the gap between weaning and full vaccination.
Your puppy should receive their vaccines against Parvovirus at 6, 8 & 12 weeks of age. If you are a pet parent, having your puppy vaccinated against Parvovirus is one of the best ways to guard the health of your new companion and other dogs in your household and neighborhood.
What are the Symptoms of Parvo
It's crucial to understand that once your puppy starts displaying symptoms, it is already very unwell. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your puppy, contact your vet immediately.
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Depression
Treatment for Parvovirus in Puppies
Parvovirus is not cured in puppies; however, veterinarians typically offer supportive treatments to address symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Your pup must get adequate hydration and nutrition to recover from Parvovirus.
Since secondary infections are common in puppies with Parvo (due to their weakened immune systems), your vet will be sure to monitor your puppy's ongoing condition and may prescribe antibiotics to help combat any bacterial infections that may begin to develop.
If a veterinarian treats your four-legged friend and survives the first four days after symptoms appear, there is a good chance that your puppy will recover from the disease. It typically takes about a week for dogs to recover from Parvo.
If your puppy is diagnosed with Canine Parvovirus, it is essential to isolate it from other animals and always wash your hands thoroughly after being near your young dog.
Preventing Parvo
Never allow your puppy to spend time around dogs that have not been fully vaccinated against Parvovirus. While socialization is essential for young dogs it is important to know that the dogs that your puppy spends time with are fully vaccinated and do not pose a health risk to your pup. Talk to your vet about protecting your new four-legged family member.
Be sure to follow your vet's advice and have your puppy vaccinated against Parvo, rabies and other potentially serious conditions based on a puppy vaccination schedule for your area.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.