At Phoenix Veterinary Center the health and well-being of your cat or dog is our number one priority.
A full-service, small animal hospital in Phoenix for cats and dogs, we are proud of our progressive medical and surgical philosophy as well as the high level of client service that we provide.
What is Canine Parvovirus?
Canine Parvovirus affects both dogs and puppies and has been reduced tremendously over the years by early vaccination in young puppies.
The majority of parvovirus is found in puppies that are between six weeks and six months.
Parvo Symptoms in Puppies and Dogs
Symptoms of parvo in dogs include:
- Refusal to eat
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea - sometimes blood appears in the stool
- Dehydration
- Weakness and difficulty walking
- Lack of coordination
- Depression
- Fever
How do Dogs get Parvo?
The spread of parvovirus is either by direct contact with an infected dog or indirectly by the spread of virus particles on objects, other animals and clothing.
Parvo is common at shelters due to the close proximity to other animals and their unknown backgrounds.
Please note that Dogs can be infectious for more than two months after they have been treated for the disease and virus particles can stay in the environment for years.
How can I protect my Dog from Parvovirus?
Protecting your dog or puppy from parvo starts with prevention! Getting your puppy or dog the parvo vaccine will ensure that they don’t encounter the disease.
- Puppies are extremely susceptible to parvo and should get their first parvovirus vaccine when they are 6-8 weeks old. Boosters should then be given at three-week intervals until they are 16 weeks of age and again when they are 1 year old.
- Although a dog may have received the parvo vaccine as a puppy, Adult dogs should get the vaccine annually.
Compassionate Pet Care at Phoenix Veterinary Center
Preventative annual exams are essential for the health of your pet. Through thorough physical examinations, your pet can live a longer and healthier life.
Preventive exams may also uncover disease earlier through screening tests which can lead to improved treatment prognosis and enhanced quality of life for your pet.
From pet education for new puppy and kitten owners to preventative exams, annual vaccines, dog and cat dental care and senior care, the team at Phoenix Veterinary Center is committed to providing caring, personal attention to the unique concerns of each pet owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parvo
At Phoenix Veterinary Center, we often get asked questions about parvovirus. Here are a few of the most common.
How is parvovirus diagnosed?
Parvovirus in dogs is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory testing. During the physical exam, your veterinarian will look for common signs of parvovirus infection, such as fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. The laboratory tests will help confirm the diagnosis and include a complete blood count, an electrolyte panel, or an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Your veterinarian may also order additional tests based on the initial results.
Are there any long-term effects of parvovirus in dogs?
While the acute effects of parvovirus can be significant, the long-term effects of the virus in dogs are usually minimal. In most cases, the affected dog will make a full recovery and show no lasting ill effects from the virus. However, in some cases, there may be lingering signs, such as a decreased appetite or fatigue that can persist for several weeks after infection. In addition, dogs that have been infected with parvovirus are more likely to suffer from other infections later in life due to their weakened immune system. It is important to take preventative measures in order to protect your pet from this virus and other infectious diseases.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from parvovirus?
The length of time it takes for a dog to recover from parvovirus depends on the infection's severity and how quickly it is diagnosed and treated. In mild cases, where the virus has not spread too deeply into the body, recovery can take as little as two weeks. In more severe cases, recovery may take up to six weeks or longer. Treatment often involves antibiotics, fluids, and supportive care such as rest and nutrition. Dogs that have recovered from parvovirus must be kept away from other dogs for at least one month after they have recovered in order to prevent reinfection.
How is parvovirus spread among animals?
Parvovirus is highly contagious and is spread through contact with infected body fluids, such as feces. It can also be spread via the air, shared bedding, toys, and other objects that have come into contact with the virus. Unfortunately, it is extremely hardy and can survive outside of a host for up to a year in some cases. It is important to note that while parvovirus can affect both cats and dogs, it is most commonly seen in young puppies, who are often not fully vaccinated against the disease.
What is the incubation period for parvovirus?
The incubation period for parvovirus in dogs is usually between three and seven days. This means that it takes up to a week for a dog to show signs of the disease after being exposed. It is important to note that some breeds of dogs may be more susceptible to the virus and, therefore, may show signs of infection sooner than other breeds. If you believe your furry family member has been exposed to parvovirus, you should take them to the vet immediately so that treatment can begin as soon as possible.
How long does a parvovirus dog remain contagious?
Parvovirus is highly contagious and can remain in the environment for up to a year. As a result, it's important to take precautions to reduce the risk of transmission. Dogs infected with parvovirus can remain contagious for up to three weeks after the initial infection. It's crucial to keep recently infected dogs away from other animals and to thoroughly disinfect any areas where an infected dog has been. Remember, vaccinations are the best way to prevent parvovirus from spreading, so make sure all of your pets are up-to-date on their shots.
Can humans be infected by parvovirus?
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can infect dogs and other animals, but not humans. While the virus cannot infect humans, it can still be spread to them through contact with the saliva or feces of an infected animal.
People who work with dogs should be aware of the risk of transmitting parvovirus on their clothing or shoes. As such, it is important to take safety precautions when dealing with animals that may have been exposed to the virus.
Are there any natural remedies for treating parvovirus in dogs?
There are no natural remedies for your doggo if they contract parvovirus. Vaccines are the best preventative.
What is the mortality rate associated with parvovirus?
The mortality rate associated with parvovirus in dogs can vary depending on age, health, and breed. Unvaccinated dogs may have a mortality rate as high as 90%. For this reason, it's important to vaccinate your pet against parvovirus in order to reduce their risk of becoming infected and potentially dying from the disease.
What is the best way to prevent parvovirus infection?
The best way to prevent parvovirus infection in dogs is to ensure that all puppies and adult dogs are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Vaccinating your pet will help to keep them protected from the virus and can reduce the likelihood of an outbreak in your home. It's important to practice good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands and avoiding contact with any animals that may have been exposed to the virus. By taking these steps, you can help protect your furry friend from this potentially fatal virus. Parvovirus is a serious virus that can be prevented by keeping up on your dog's vaccinations. Contact Phoenix Veterinary Center immediately if your dog shows any signs of the virus.
Contact Phoenix Veterinary Center if you think your dog has parvovirus or they need their vaccinations. Tto request an appointment for your furry four-legged family member call (602) 559-5500 today!
