12/13/2024
‘‘Tis the season…’
To get Parvo?? Huh??
Yes, Parvovirus is a potentially deadly virus that is highly contagious between dogs and can even be passed through the f***s of an affected dog. Yuck. I know, you would never let your dog eat another dogs pooh, right? But if your dog even steps in the diarrhea of an affected dog and then licks their feet, they can become infected.
Parvo is a nasty virus that affects quick growing cells, like those in the intestinal tract and the bone marrow. So the most common signs include vomiting and bloody diarrhea. In younger puppies, the heart muscle can also become affected by the virus.
There are tests that can check for the virus, but that is only the first step. If your dog has Parvovirus gastroenteritis, their intestinal cells are being attacked and damaged very quickly. This leads to extreme dehydration, as well as electrolyte loss because of the diarrhea. Even previously healthy, robust dogs can die from dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Blood work is usually done to check for the electrolyte levels, blood counts and level of dehydration. Many dogs will need antibiotics, IV fluids and to be hospitalized.
The real danger is that this is a very contagious, easily passed virus condition. If you think you may know a dog who is infected, KEEP YOUR DOG AWAY! If you think YOUR dog has it, call the hospital to get them checked. After handling your dog, or their pooh, wash hands very well before handling any other dogs. Use a good disinfectant product to clean any areas where your dog has vomited or had diarrhea.
Is there any good news?
As a matter of fact, there is! There is a simple vaccine that can prevent Parvo, or lessen the severity of disease if contracted. Puppies usually get it along with their three boosters. Adult dogs need to get two boosters if they were not vaccinated as puppies. If yours is not up to date on their vaccines, please call to arrange their annual check up and booster vaccines.
