How Canine Parvovirus ('Parvo') Spreads
Any puppy or unvaccinated dog is vulnerable to parvovirus, no matter their age and breed. This highly contagious viral disease is caused by canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2).
causes dogs to develop severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The virus spreads through traces of infected dogs' feces. Asymptomatic dogs (those who have contracted the infection but not yet developed symptoms), along with dogs who are displaying symptoms and those who have recently recovered from the disease, can all spread parvovirus.
Because this disease is so highly contagious, any person who comes into contact with an infected dog can inadvertently transmit the virus to other puppies and dogs simply by touching them. For example, lovingly patting a friendly dog on the head may be enough to pass on this life-threatening illness.
Leashes, toys, bedding, and bowls are some common surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.
How Parvovirus Attacks Your Dog's Body
Parvovirus invades a dog's stomach and small intestine, destroying the gut barrier by attacking healthy cells and keeping the body from absorbing vital nutrients and minerals. It can also sometimes impact the heart.
In puppies, parvovirus also attacks the bone marrow and lymphopoietic tissues, both of which help your dog's immune system work as it should.
Why Puppies Are Vulnerable to Parvo
If a mother dog has been fully vaccinated against parvovirus, her puppies will inherit her antibodies and be protected against the virus for the first six weeks of their lives. However, when they are around six weeks old, the puppies will begin to wean and their immune systems will start to weaken, leaving them vulnerable to the disease.
This is why veterinarians recommend pet owners start vaccinating their puppies against parvo at the six-week mark, when the mother dog's antibodies start to wear off, leaving her babies unprotected. It's important to note that puppies will not be fully protected against the virus (also known as having immunity) until after they have received all three of the series of parvovirus dog vaccines. Puppies are most likely to contract parvo in this period between weaning and full vaccination.
Your puppy should receive their vaccines against parvovirus at four-week intervals starting when they are six to eight weeks old, with their final boosters administered between the 12 and 16-month mark. If you are a pet owner, vaccinating your puppy against parvovirus is the best way to safeguard your new furry friend's health and the health of other dogs in your neighborhood and household.
What are the symptoms of parvovirus in a dog?
It's critical to realize that once your puppy displays parvovirus symptoms, they're already very sick. If you notice any of the symptoms listed below in your dog, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Depression
Treatment for Parvovirus in Puppies
Although parvo is not curable in puppies, your veterinarian can provide supportive treatment to manage symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Adequate hydration and nutrition are crucial for a dog's recovery from parvo.
Due to their weakened immune systems, puppies with parvo often develop secondary infections. Therefore, veterinarians monitor their progress and may prescribe antibiotics to combat any bacterial infections.
If treated by a veterinarian and able to survive the first four days after symptoms appear, there is a good chance that your puppy will recover from the disease. Typically, Parvo in dogs takes about a week to recover from.
If your puppy is diagnosed with canine parvovirus, it is essential to take steps to isolate your puppy from other animals and always wash your hands thoroughly after being near your young dog.
Preventing Parvo
Avoid bringing your puppy around any dogs that may not be fully vaccinated against parvovirus. While socialization is important for young dogs, it's also crucial to ensure that the dogs with whom your puppy interacts are fully vaccinated and do not pose a health risk. Consult your veterinarian for advice on how to protect your new four-legged family member best.
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.