Dogs can easily become infected with parvovirus when near an infected dog or by sharing their things. Here, our Kingman veterinarians share the symptoms in dogs with the virus known as parvovirus and the immunity that can be expected with vaccines.
How is parvovirus in dogs spread?
Puppies and unvaccinated dogs of all ages are susceptible to parvovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The virus is spread by traces of infected dogs' feces. Asymptomatic dogs, those who have been infected but have not yet developed symptoms, as well as dogs who have developed symptoms and those who have recently recovered from the disease, can all spread Parvo.
Because the disease is so contagious, a person who comes into contact with an infected dog unknowingly can pass the virus on to puppies and other dogs simply by touching them. A loving pat on the head, for example, could be the start of a life-threatening illness.
Other common sources of contamination are leashes, bowls, toys, and bedding.
The Effect of Parvovirus on Your Dog
Parvo is a disease that affects the stomach and small intestine. The virus starts destroying the dog's gut barrier here, attacking healthy cells and preventing essential nutrients from being absorbed.
In puppies, parvo also attacks the bone marrow and lymphopoietic tissues which play essential roles in your dog's immune system, and then the virus will often affect the heart.
The Impact of Parvovirus on Puppies
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 6 weeks of their lives.
However, as the puppies begin to wean at about 6 weeks of age their immune systems weaken and the young pups become susceptible to the disease.
Veterinarians recommend that pet parents start vaccinating their puppies against Parvo at 6 weeks of age when the puppy begins to wean and the mother's antibodies are no longer effective in protecting the puppy.
The young dog will not be protected against the disease until they have received all three Parvo vaccinations. Puppies are most likely to contract Parvo during the time between weaning and full vaccination.
Your puppy should receive their vaccines against Parvovirus at 6, 8, and 12 weeks of age. If you are a pet parent, having your puppy vaccinated against Parvovirus is one of the best ways you can guard the health of your new companion and the health of other dogs in your household and neighborhood.
What are the symptoms of parvovirus in a dog?
When it comes to parvovirus, dogs usually begin to show symptoms once the illness is already more advanced. If you notice any of the symptoms of parvovirus in your dog, please contact your vet right away::
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Depression
Treatment for Parvovirus in Puppies
Although there is no cure for Parvo in puppies, your veterinarian can provide supportive treatment for symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. To recover from Parvovirus, your dog must receive adequate hydration and nutrition.
Because secondary infections are common in puppies with Parvo (due to their weakened immune systems), your veterinarian will keep an eye on your puppy's progress and may prescribe antibiotics to help combat any bacterial infections that develop.
There is a good chance that your puppy will recover from the disease if he or she is treated by a veterinarian and survives the first four days after symptoms appear. Parvo in dogs usually lasts 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
Allowing your puppy to be around dogs who have not been fully vaccinated against Parvovirus is never a good idea. 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 best protect 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.