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 the disease.
Parvovirus 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, which means 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 does parvovirus attack a dog's body?
Parvo is considered a disease of the stomach and small intestines. Here, the virus begins destroying the dog's gut barrier by attacking healthy cells and blocking the absorption of essential nutrients.
Parvo also attacks puppies' bone marrow and lymphopoietic tissues, which are essential to your dog's immune system. The virus will often affect the heart.
Why are puppies susceptible to parvo?
If the mother is fully vaccinated against parvo, the puppies will inherit antibodies from the mother, protecting them against the virus for the first six weeks of their lives and temporarily giving them parvovirus immunity.
However, the puppies begin to wean at about six weeks of age, and their immune systems weaken, making them 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 won't be protected against the disease until they have received all three parvo vaccinations. During the gap between weaning and full vaccination, puppies are most likely to catch parvo.
Your puppy should receive their vaccines against parvovirus at 6, 8, and 12 weeks. If you are a pet parent, vaccinating your puppy 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 parvovirus in a dog?
It is essential to understand that once your dog begins showing symptoms, it is already very ill. Contact your vet right away if you notice your puppy or dog displaying any of the following symptoms of parvovirus.
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Depression
How is parvovirus in dogs treated?
There is no cure for parvo 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, isolating it from other animals is essential. Always wash your hands thoroughly after being near your young dog.
How can I prevent my dog from contracting parvovirus?
Never allow your puppy to spend time around dogs that are not vaccinated against parvovirus. While socialization is essential for young dogs, it is important to know that the dogs with whom your puppy spends time 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.