What is parvovirus? The highly contagious DEADLY viral illness YOUR pooch is at risk of
PARVOVIRUS is a highly contagious and deadly viral illness killing dogs across the UK - but what are the symptoms and how is it treated?
Parvovirus: The highly contagious viral illness your dog is at risk of
The canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs.
The virus manifests itself in two different forms.
The more common form is the intestinal form, which is characterised by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite.
The less common form is the cardiac form, which attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, often leading to death.
The majority of cases are seen in puppies that are between six weeks and six months old.
There are a variety of risk factors that can increase a dog’s susceptibility to the disease, but mainly, the virus is transmitted either by direct contact with an infected dog, or indirectly if the dog comes into contact with infected faeces.
Heavy concentrations of the virus are found in an infected dog’s stool, so when a healthy dog sniffs an infected dog’s stool, it will contract the disease.
The virus can also be brought into a dog's environment by way of shoes that have come into contact with infected faeces.
Parvovirus: Certain breeds are more susceptible to CPV, including Labrador Retrievers
Worryingly, there is evidence that the virus can live in ground soil for up to a year.
It is resistant to most cleaning products, but can be killed with bleach - the only disinfectant known to kill the virus.
Dogs can be vaccinated against CPV and vaccination failure can also lead to a CPV infection.
Moment sick dogs are RESCUED from puppy farm
Parvovirus: vaccination is the only way to prevent your puppy catching CPV
Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to CPV, including Rottweilers Doberman Pinschers, Pit Bulls, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, English Springer Spaniels and Alaskan sled dogs.
Sadly, there is no real cure for CPV as it is a viral infection.
Treatment is focused on curing the symptoms and preventing secondary bacterial infections.
The best prevention is insuring dogs are properly vaccinated.
Young puppies should be vaccinated at six, nine and twelve weeks, and should not be socialised with outside dogs until a minimum of two weeks after their final vaccinations.
High-risk breeds may require a longer initial vaccination period of up to 22 weeks - check with your vet if you are unsure.