06/10/2025
Topic Tuesday📖
🚨 Parvovirus Alert! 🚨
We’re seeing a summer surge in Parvovirus cases — and it’s serious.
🐾 What is Parvo?
Parvovirus attacks the dividing cells of the body, mainly in the GI tract and bone marrow, which leads to vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and sepsis. It also occurs in kittens but it is known as Panleukopenia.
💉 Can it be prevented?
Luckily, YES! This virus is easily preventable with vaccines when given in a timely manner. It is extremely important for puppies and kittens to get their series of vaccinations to protect against Parvovirus. Most vaccines not only protect against Parvovirus but also against Distemper, Hepatitis, and Parainfluenza.
🏥 What if they get it?
Infected pets often need intensive 24 hour care, including IV fluids and antibiotics for several days — our longest case was 2 weeks. Even then, the virus can be fatal. New antibody infusions offer hope, but can be costly, especially in larger puppies.
