For dog owners, Spring means more than warmer weather and longer walks. It's also a time to be sure that your dog is up to date on his vaccines, including a vaccine for parvovirus.
Once contracted, parvovirus can kill in 48 to 72 hours after the first symptoms of depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, and severe diarrhea appear. Puppies, especially those between weaning and six months of age, are at increased riskof acquiring the disease. There also appears to be a higher risk in certain breeds (e.g. Rottweillers and Dobermans).
Parvovirus or "Parvo" is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks the dog's intestinal tract, white blood cells, and in some cases the heart muscle. Since first appearing in the 1960's canine parvovirus (CPV) infection, has appeared worldwide.
Parvo infection can only be transmitted to dogs and other canids, like wolves, but not to other types of animals or people. However animals and people can carry it to your dog.
The virus lives in the fecal waste of infected dogs, and is incredibly hardy and resistant to environmental conditions, surviving for months. Large amounts of the virus may be present in fecal material of infected dogs.
The first signs will most often appear 5-7 days after the dog is exposed to the virus. At the onset of illness, the feces will generally be light gray or yellow-gray. Sometimes, the first sign will be fluid feces streaked with blood.
If you see symptoms of Parvo take your dog to the vet immediately! Very few dogs survive an untreated Parvo infection.
Check your dog's vaccination records to make sure that he has received his Parvo shots. Once innoculated, dogs should get a yearly booster, especially if you regularly take them to areas where large numbers of dogs congregate. And that's not just dog parks, either; Parvo has even been found in show dog arenas and kennels.
If you have a puppy, be sure to include her Parvo vaccine. Puppies under the age of four months that have not been inoculated are at greatest risk.
Puppies generally get a series of shots to prevent the disease. Many veterinarians finish the series at 12 to 14 weeks, and some vets suggest that puppies be innoculated up to at least 22 weeks.
If you are unsure whether Parvo is affecting dogs in your local area, check with your veterinarian; they will be able to give you tips on areas to avoid. You can reduce the risk of exposure to your dog by not letting him step in or make contact with, the feces of other dogs.
And of course, do your part to prevent the spread of this deadly virus - Always Pick Up After Your Dog!
[dog health]
[dogs]
[puppies]
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