|
This virus affects our pet dogs and cats as well as
wild dogs and cats. The disease in cats is rarely
seen nowadays, but in dogs, it is still prevalent, especially
in those not vaccinated for parvo virus.
Symptoms are mainly seen as vomiting, diarrhea, with
lack of appetite or thirst. Commonly affects young
puppies after 6 weeks of age, who have yet to complete
their vaccination
series. Older, unvaccinated dogs can also
become infected with Parvo, and the degree of infection
depends upon how functional the dog's immune system
is. Poorly vaccinated dogs which are exposed to
a heavy dose of virus, tend to be more seriously affected.
Parvo virus is spread from dog to dog mainly in the
stool or vomit of infected dogs. This virus can
live in the environment for weeks to months given the
right conditions. Humans who contact the virus
from infected animals or areas, can expose the virus
to a dog.
Proper hygiene is required when handling a parvo infected
individual and their environment. Bleach or a
product known as parvosol will kill the virus in the
environment. Washing towels and bedding with laundry
detergent is sufficient to kill the virus as well.
Cleaning areas where the dog has vomited or had stool
with these products is a must to prevent spread to other
unaffected dogs.
Treatment is mainly aimed at the symptoms the dog is
experiencing. There is no anti-parvo virus drug
available. Affected dogs which are dehydrated
require fluid replacement therapy. Vomiting must
be treated if moderate or severe. Antibiotics
are usually necessary to prevent secondary bacterial
infection from occurring. Usually food and water
is withheld until the dog stops vomiting, and the stool
begins to firm.
Sometimes treatment aimed at boosting the immune system
is helpful. Treatment is not always successful,
and is difficult to predict success in some cases.
All dogs should receive a vaccination
series, with follow up annual vaccine for parvo
virus. Check with your veterinarian for
vaccine recommendations for your dog.
|
