The most infectious disorder found among dogs is a relatively new threat.
Experts say that the canine parvovirus (CPV) disease is the most common infectious disease in the United States. New strains of the disease keep developing, confounding vets and pet owners. CPV-2b is the most common variety of the disease found in the United States. CPV-2c, which was first confirmed in the United States in 2006, is fast becoming the second most common.
Canine parvovirus, which is also commonly referred to as parvo, affects dogs of all ages, but it is especially prevalent among puppies six months of age or less. The worst cases usually occur in puppies younger than 12 weeks of age. Some breeds such as Dobermans, Labrador retrievers and rottweilers are more susceptible.
While vaccinations are helping to control the spread of parvo, they are not a foolproof means of protection for your dog. There have been cases of vaccinated dogs contacting parvo and expiring from the highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal tract. Damage to the heart muscle can occur in very young and unborn puppies.
Parvo is spread through contact with feces that contain the virus. Unfortunately, the parvovirus can survive a long time in the environment on inanimate objects such as clothing, food dishes and cage or kennel floors. Experts believe that insects and rodents may play an important role in the transmission of the serious disease.
Because parvo can exist for such a long period of time, hygiene is very important. Any fecal or vomited matter needs to be removed immediately. Follow with a thorough cleansing of one part bleach to 20 parts water.
Most dogs show signs of infection with a week or two of being exposed to the virus. The symptoms include a high fever, lethargy and a loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, vomiting and bloody diarrhea occur. The feces will have an especially foul odor and will be very liquid.
If you even remotely suspect a dog has parvo, call the vet immediately. This is basically an emergency because death can occur within 48 to 72 hours of the onset of any symptoms.
Veterinarians can perform several tests and do blood work to determine the presence and severity of the virus.
Dogs diagnosed with parvo are treated with supportive therapy. A very important step is to replace fluids that were lost due through vomiting and diarrhea. Some vets will administer an electrolyte solution intravenously; others prefer to give fluids in a subcutaneous manner.
Blood transfusions may be necessary in very severe cases of parvo. Antibiotics are usually given to control any secondary infections that might occur. Food is restricted during treatment to allow the stomach to recover.
Prevention is the key to eliminating parvo. Veterinarians have vaccines that can be administered as part of the dog’s routine shots. Puppies require a series of vaccinations to insure protection, so keep your young dog away from other dogs and areas that dogs frequent until the series of shots is completed.
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It is so sad to see a little puppy dying for this kind of diseases that are preventable. We have to be responsible with our puppies and always vaccinate them when it is the right time.