Parvovirus

Dogs become infected with parvovirus though contact with the stool of an infected dog or a contaminated environment. The virus is very hardy and remains infective in the environment for a long time. Puppies are most susceptible to parvovirus infections. Parvovirus causes severe and often bloody vomiting and diarrhea. Infected animals rapidly dehydrate, and severe cases progress to shock and death. Prognosis is generally guarded, and depends upon the level of dehydration and illness of the animal at the time treatment begins, as well as age and general health of the puppy. Fatalities occur mostly in puppies less than 12 weeks old. Occasionally parvovirus attacks the heart muscle of puppies, and can cause sudden death. A vaccine is available for prevention of canine parvovirus infection, and all dogs should be vaccinated. If a dog is tested positive for parvovirus, precautions should be made with their home environment. Bedding, floors and anywhere there has been contact with infectious material should be thoroughly cleaned with bleach or a cleaning solution approved for killing parvo before introducing new dogs to the environment.