Puppies are at risk of a highly contagious and lethal virus that spreads through the feces of infected animals called the Parvovirus. The Parvovirus targets unvaccinated puppies, adolescent dogs, and immune suppressed dogs.  Restricting your puppy’s public outdoor exposure until he is fully vaccinated at 16 weeks is recommended. Disinfecting an area where the virus has been present is extremely difficult, and in warmer climates, the virus can survive up to a year in the environment.

The virus sets up first in the lymph nodes located in the throat then quickly replicates. Significant amounts of the virus reach the bloodstream within a couple of days of infection. The virus infects new organs, such as the bone marrow and intestinal cells within three to four days. The incubation period of the parvovirus takes three to seven days before obvious signs of illness.

 Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to extreme dehydration. The virus attacks the intestinal cells causing the intestinal barrier to be compromised, allowing bacteria to invade the body. As a result of extreme fluid loss, 50% of untreated cases result in death. Contact us immediately if you believe your puppy or dog is showing any signs of Parvo.

A puppy diagnosed with Parvovirus must be isolated, hospitalized, and treated with IV fluids and antibiotics. While the damaged immune system is trying to respond to treatment, fluid loss, and bacterial invasion can still cause damage.

Prevention is the most important thing to remember about Parvovirus. We recommend bringing your new puppy in for vaccinations every four weeks until he reaches 16 weeks to boost his defenses against Parvo and other diseases. Be sure to keep your puppy isolated from unvaccinated dogs during this period.