Parvovirus-The Need To Knows
We have seen too many cases in the ER of canine parvovirus, “parvo”, so let’s prepare ourselves as furbaby owners for this disease. As the name says it is a virus and highly contagious to any dog but mostly puppies and those who have not been vaccinated for it. This is a hardy virus and can survive in the environment well. It is transmitted or passed by contact with contaminated feces so that means grass, sidewalks even we can step in it and carry it home! This virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and most owners will notice their puppy having diarrhea, not eating, vomiting and lethargic.
If you notice your puppy coming down with these signs the sooner you seek treatment the better; however this still has a 50:50 chance of recovery. If your puppy becomes sick please do not wait to get care! Until your puppy has its full set of vaccines from their veterinarian do not take them around other dogs and keep their environment clean. We love our furbaby’s so let’s keep them safe and get them vaccinated!
Kayla Stomack, DVM