Dog Diseases - Parvo

Parvo virus

Parvovirus (more commonly known as Parvo) is a highly contagious disease that causes diarrhea and vomiting, and often leads to death. Although Parvo is most common in puppies, dogs of any age are susceptible. The most common way to transmit Parvo from one dog to another is via contaminated feces. Parvo can also be carried on the dog's hair and feet, as well as contaminated cages, shoes and other objects.

Symptoms

Parvovirus is a severe gastrointestinal disease. It initially causes

• Weakness,
• Depression,
• Lethargy.

After a few days to weeks, it causes -

• vomiting and
• lack of appetite.

The dogs develop a Very high fever. Very severe diarrhoea ensues, grey in colour, often with blood and tissue. Because of the vomiting and diarrhoea, the dogs become very weak and dehydrated.

Puppies and dogs less than two years old, may also suffer from heart disease caused by the virus, causing sudden death.

Parvo Facts

• No Cure
• 80-percent survive with proper treatment
• Parvovirus is very durable in the environment and can persist in the environment for months or years.
• Bleach or potassium peroxymonosulfate (Trifectant or Virkon-S) have been proven to kill parvovirus if used correctly. For more information on parvocidal disinfectants, click here.
• There is no way to completely disinfect contaminated dirt and grass, although sunlight and drying has some effect. Mechanical decontamination through irrigation may also be helpful, but the area must be allowed to dry thoroughly between applications. Potassium peroxymonosulfate has relatively good activity in the face of organic matter, and can be sprayed on contaminated areas using a pesticide sprayer or other applicator. To be on the safe side, contaminated areas should be off limits to puppies for 1-6 months (choose the longer end of the waiting interval for moist, dark areas, if area can not be heavily irrigated or if it can not be sprayed with potassium peroxymonosulfate).
• Parvovirus can be spread on hands, feet, clothing, tools, rodents and flies traveling from kennel to kennel! Dogs may carry the virus on their fur and feet even if they themselves do not get ill. The virus enters the dog through the nose or mouth and has an incubation period of 3 days to 2 weeks (usually 5-7 days).
• Puppies under 6 months old are most likely to get severe disease. Rottweilers, Dobermans, pit bulls and mixes of these breeds are especially vulnerable. Adult dogs may get mild disease that is indistinguishable from diarrhea of any other cause. Affected dogs have mild to severe diarrhea, may be dehydrated and lethargic, have vomiting, or can develop severe to fatal secondary bacterial infections.
• Vaccination usually prevents disease in adult dogs that have received a vaccine at least 1-2 weeks before exposure, but does not prevent them from carrying virus on fur if exposed. Puppies up to 16 weeks of age may not be protected fully by vaccination.

Parvo Cleanup

Disinfect with Bleach: Bowls, floors, surfaces, toys, & bedding

What can you do?

Immediately consult your vet. Do not wait. Every minute is precious in saving your puppy’s life.

Links

http://wolfcreekranch1.tripod.com/heal_parvo.html

http://www.sheltermedicine.com/portal/is_parvovirus_canine.shtml