Canine Parvovirus

Parvovirus can be spread when a dog comes in contact with the feces of an infected dog. The virus can remain infectious on contaminated ground for five months or more. As a result, your pet can contract parvovirus anywhere dogs come together—such as parks, kennels, shelters and pet stores. Once the virus enters your pet’s body, it multiplies in the bone marrow, intestinal tract and immune system. As the virus matures and reproduces (over about five days), it can cause life-threatening damage to your pet’s immune system and intestinal tract. Without fast diagnosis and treatment, your pet may die from dehydration and/or bacterial infection. It is very important that you protect your pet from the threat of parvovirus. Talk to your veterinarian about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of this deadly disease.

Parvovirus Symptoms
If you see any of the following symptoms in your puppy or dog, contact your veterinarian immediately:

The combination of symptoms can vary, therefore, parvovirus is difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. Rapid, in-clinic tests are crucial for diagnosis and appropriate therapy. Vaccination is a very effective step to prevent this threatening disease. Please talk with us about vaccinating your dog.