05/26/2025
Let’s talk about Parvo.
Canine parvovirus is a contagious virus mainly affecting dogs and wolves. It is highly contagious and is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their f***s. Vaccines can prevent this infection, but mortality can reach 91% in untreated cases. Cats and kittens are susceptible to Panleukopenia, a different strain of parvovirus. Survival rate depends on how quickly CPV is diagnosed, the age of the dog, and how aggressive the treatment is. Parvo symptoms often appear without warning and are severe. The current standard of care is supportive care…often times involving extensive hospitalization due to severe dehydration and potential damage to the intestines and bone marrow. Puppies should receive a series of parvo vaccinations, typically starting between 6 and 8 weeks of age, and then booster shots every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. A final booster is usually recommended one year after the puppy series, and then every three years for adult dogs. ALL dogs are susceptible to canine parvovirus, although some dogs are at greater risk. Puppies between 6 and 20 weeks of age and unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs run the biggest risk of falling ill.
Unvaccinated and sick puppies p**p millions of virus particles every time they have a bowel movement. Those particles are resistant to both heat and cold and can remain in the soil for YEARS. THIS is why you vaccinate any young pet in your home. THIS is why you ask if that new puppy or kitten has had any vaccinations or boosters before you bring them home. THIS is why you don’t take unvaccinated animals around other people’s pets or homes for a playdate. THIS is why unvaccinated animals shouldn’t be brought to the park to play…human park OR dog park. Please be a responsible pet owner. Lives actually DO depend on it.🐾
