What Every Pet Owner Needs To Know About “Parvo,” The Highly Infectious Virus That Attacks Young Dogs
In severe cases, parvo could lead to death, too.
The COVID-19 pandemic has, in a way, helped us tap into our nurturing selves, enough for many to want to become “halamoms” and fur-parents. Now, taking in a pet is a big step to adulthood. We must remember that adopting a puppy is both a responsibility and a commitment, especially since they are prone to illnesses too, which could sometimes endanger their lives. One of the most common diseases that puppies can get is the canine parvovirus.
In May this year, two of our puppies – Pupper and Cloudy – were infected with parvo. We first noticed how Pupper was not being his energetic self, he didn’t want to eat, he wasn’t wagging his tail, and he seemed unusually sluggish. We immediately thought that something was wrong.
We took him to the vet where he tested positive for parvo and was admitted so he could be better taken care of. After two days at the vet, we were able to take him home.
What is canine parvovirus?
Canine parvovirus, commonly referred to as “parvo,” is a highly infectious virus that affects mostly puppies less than four months old, and even adult dogs who are unvaccinated. According to the Merck Vet Manual, the virus affects dogs’ gastrointestinal tract and can be spread through contact with other dogs or contaminated surfaces or stool.
Signs and symptoms
According to Pet MD, dogs with parvo will start to show symptoms within three to seven days of infection. They will often be lethargic, feverish, and would not want to eat. Sometimes, they also suffer from severe vomiting and diarrhea.
When Pupper was taken home, he was given vitamins and supplements through an IV, and had daily home visits from the vet to administer all his vaccines.
A few days after Pupper was taken home, our other puppy, Cloudy, started showing signs of the virus. She didn’t have the energy to play, didn’t want to eat, and wasn’t wagging her tail like usual. As we expected, she tested positive for the virus too.
Treatment
Taking care of two parvo-positive puppies was not a piece of cake, especially for our bank accounts. Daily home visits from the vet cost around Php 4,000 per day, for more than a week, but getting them admitted to the animal hospital would incur an additional Php 1,000 a day.
While there is no specific drug or cure to treat canine parvovirus, improving their immune system can fight off the infection. According to an article by the American Veterinary Medical Association, “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.”
But the reality is, even with aggressive treatment and extensive approaches, parvo can still cause death in severe cases. In the same article, it says, “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.”
Prevention
One thing that my family learned about this experience is how important it is to find a good vet – someone you can trust and who actually cares about your pups, and someone who knows what’s best for you and your furry friends.
Several vaccines later, we noticed that both Pupper and Cloudy were slowly getting back to their energetic selves. They started barking again, wagging their tails, and asking for food (which is super important as it helps strengthen their immune system).
To prevent your puppies from getting infected, fur-parents must follow these tips:
Make sure your dogs are vaccinated.
There are a lot of vaccines necessary for your dog’s protection. Sunnyside Pet Hospital says that puppies should get their first dose between six and eight weeks of age. “They’ll then need boosters every three weeks until they’re 16 weeks old. Because the virus is so contagious and harmful, your dog will need another booster when he turns one and then additional booster shots each year.”
As much as possible, keep your dogs indoors.
The parvo virus can live on surfaces for more than a year. It may be difficult to kill it just by using regular disinfectants, which is why it is encouraged to avoid public spaces that may be contaminated until your dog is fully vaccinated.
Limit your pet’s exposure to unvaccinated dogs.
It might be fun to introduce your puppy to other fur-friends in the neighborhood, but you have to ensure their safety too. It’s best to limit their exposure to stray animals, especially if you’re not sure if they don’t have updated vaccine shots.
This article originally appeared on OneLife.PH
