Canine Parvo: Frequently Asked Questions
As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your furry best friend is as safe as possible, which means providing your dog with the scheduled vaccinations. Unfortunately, there is one illness that dogs, especially puppies, are vulnerable to which is potentially life-threatening: canine parvovirus. Understanding parvovirus is the best way to protect your puppy from this unfortunately common illness.
Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions you might have about canine parvovirus.
What Exactly Is Canine Parvovirus?
Otherwise known as parvo, Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that is spread through canine feces or through direct contact with an infected dog. The virus attacks a dog's intestinal tract and if the infected dog is not treated by a veterinarian, parvo is very deadly.
The virulence of parvo makes it important for puppy owners to understand the symptoms associated with parvovirus, which include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Bloody diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Extreme weakness
- Lethargy
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in a very young puppy or an unvaccinated dog, it is critical to contact your veterinarian right away.
How Will My Veterinarian Treat a Puppy With Parvovirus?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for parvovirus and instead, your veterinarian will treat the symptoms associated with parvovirus and support your dog with intravenous fluids and nutrients. The treatments are intended to help your dog remain as healthy as possible while the dog's immune system fights the virus. Additionally, your dog's weakened immune system leaves them susceptible to secondary infections.
Your veterinarian will also recommend antibiotics to help treat and prevent any secondary bacterial infections that can weaken your dog's immune system even more.
How Can I Protect My Puppy Against Canine Parvovirus?
The best way to protect your puppy from parvovirus is to have your puppy vaccinated. Your veterinarian will recommend the proper vaccination schedule. This schedule typically includes inoculations at six to eight weeks and every three weeks until your puppy is 16 weeks old. A booster is then given when your puppy is a year old.
The best way to protect your puppy from parvovirus until they are fully vaccinated at 16 weeks is to limit your puppy's exposure to other dogs, especially dogs that you do not know.
Parvovirus is a serious infection that is potentially life-threatening to your dog. Contact an animal hospital with any other questions you have about canine parvovirus.