02/07/2023
Lately we have seen an increasing cases of Parvo Virus at the clinic. We want to share and warned the public about this deadly disease among puppies.
✔️ It is highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies younger than four months old are the most at risk.
✔️ Dogs that are ill from canine parvovirus infection are often said to have "parvo." The virus affects dogs' gastrointestinal tracts and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated f***s (stool), environments, or people.
✔️The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs.
✔️It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and drying, and can survive in the environment for long periods of time.
✔️Even trace amounts of f***s from an infected dog may harbor the virus and infect other dogs that come into the infected environment.
✔️The virus is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes, or other objects.
The dogs in the pictures have tested positive for parvo and showed signs such as
🩺Lethargy
🩺 loss of appetite
🩺abdominal pain and bloating
🩺fever or
🩺Low body temperature (hypothermia);
🩺vomiting
🩺bloody, diarrhea.
If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Most deaths from parvovirus occur within 48 to 72 hours following the onset of clinical signs. If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
No specific drug is available that will kill the virus in infected dogs, and treatment is intended to support the dog's body systems until the dog's immune system can fight off the viral infection. Treatment should be started immediately and consists primarily of intensive care efforts to combat dehydration by replacing electrolyte, protein and fluid losses, controlling vomiting and diarrhea, and preventing secondary infections. Sick dogs should be kept warm and receive good nursing care.
The treatment can be very expensive, and the dog may die despite aggressive treatment. Early recognition and aggressive treatment are very important in successful outcomes.
Since parvovirus is highly contagious, isolation of infected dogs is necessary to minimize spread of infection. Proper cleaning and disinfection of contaminated kennels and other areas where infected dogs are (or have been) housed is essential to control the spread of parvovirus. The virus is not easily killed, so consult your veterinarian for specific guidance on cleaning and disinfecting agents.
Preventing parvovirus
Vaccination and good hygiene are critical components of prevention.
Young puppies are very susceptible to infection, particularly because the natural immunity provided in their mothers' milk may wear off before the puppies' own immune systems are mature enough to fight off infection.
Puppies should receive a dose of canine parvovirus vaccine between 14 and 16 weeks of age, regardless of how many doses they received earlier, to develop adequate protection.
To protect their adult dogs, pet owners should be sure that their dog's parvovirus vaccination is up-to-date. There are titers available that measure the dog's level of antibodies against the canine parvovirus, but the antibody level may not directly translate to protection if the dog is exposed to the virus. Ask your veterinarian about a recommended prevention program for your dog.
Until a puppy has received its complete series of vaccinations, pet owners should use caution when bringing their pet to places where young puppies congregate (e.g. pet shops, parks, puppy classes, obedience classes, doggy daycare, kennels, and grooming establishments).
In spite of proper vaccination, a small percentage of dogs do not develop protective immunity and remain susceptible to infection.
Finally, do not let your puppy or adult dog to come into contact with the f***l waste of other dogs while walking or playing outdoors. Prompt and proper disposal of waste material is always advisable as a way to limit spread of canine parvovirus infection as well as other diseases that can infect humans and animals.
Source: avma.org
Always remember that "Prevention is better than cure" it is cheaper than confinement and treatment.
BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE BRING YOUR PETS TO YOUR TRUSTED VETS AND LET THEM BE VACCINATED AGAINTS THIS DEADLY VIRUS.
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