Part of being a pet owner is protecting your dog against different viruses and diseases. If you recently adopted a puppy, it’s important to get them vaccinated against parvovirus at a vet clinic. Here’s a detailed overview of this highly contagious condition so you can help keep your pup happy and healthy.
What Is Parvovirus?
Parvovirus is a disease that affects the gastrointestinal tracts of canines. While all dogs can contract this virus, puppies that are between six weeks and six months old are especially at risk because their immune systems haven’t fully developed.
Puppies with parvovirus may experience a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, including lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dehydration. If your furry friend is exhibiting any of these systems, bring them to a vet clinic as soon as possible.
How Does It Spread?
Dogs contract parvovirus by coming in direct contact with another sick canine or a contaminated surface. Exposure can also result from consuming or sniffing feces from an infected dog. Parvovirus can live on surfaces like a person’s shoe, water and food bowls, and kennel carriers. Owners can also transmit the illness on their hands if they unknowingly handled or pet a pup that is sick.
This virus is able to withstand extreme temperatures. It can also survive indoors for at least a month and outdoors for several months, making it extremely dangerous.
How Do You Prevent It?
The most effective way to prevent parvovirus is through vaccination. These shots are administered in three rounds, at 6, 8, and 12 weeks of age. Keep your furry friend away from unvaccinated dogs until they’ve received all of their shots.
How Do You Treat It?
While there is no specific treatment for parvovirus, a veterinarian will give your puppy supportive care by replacing electrolyte, protein, and fluid losses. Since the virus can make it more difficult for your furry family member to fight off secondary bacterial infections, the vet may give them antibiotic medication, as well. It typically takes a full week for puppies to fully recover from the virus.
If your puppy needs a parvovirus vaccination, turn to the team at Wards Corner Animal Hospital in Loveland, OH. Our vet clinic has been providing superior pet care services for over 30 years, including wellness checkups, pet vaccinations, and spay and neuter surgeries. We truly care about the health and well-being of your pet, and we also offer house visits for pet owners’ convenience. For more information about our services, call (513) 683-2883.
