Parvo: A Dog's Worst Nightmare
Have you been thinking about getting a dog but are scared away of the veterinary bills? Are you concerned about your dog being exposed to parvovirus? You aren't alone.
As dog owners, we like to think our pets are invincible. Just like humans, dogs get sick. Unfortunately, that often includes a disease known as Parvovirus. This is also sometimes referred to as Parvo. This can be very scary and overwhelming for some dog owners because it is such a deadly dog disease.
The key is prevention and knowing what to do if your dog does have this disease. Learn all the basics about the symptoms of parvo and how you can avoid this deadly dog disease.
The signs of Parvo in dogs can be subtle or severe but regardless, if you suspect your dog has Parvo it is crucial to get them to a vet immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the better their chances of surviving the virus.
Parvo can be fatal, and it's important to know the signs of the disease so you can get your dog treated right away.
Here are some things to look out for:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
But, what is Parvo?
Canine parvovirus or Parvo is a highly contagious, potentially deadly virus that attacks the gastrointestinal tract of dogs. This can lead to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and vomiting. It usually strikes on pups aged between 6 to 20 weeks old. However, older dogs are sometimes getting it too. It nearly wiped out the canine population in the U.S. in the late 1970s and 80s.
How can your dog acquire Parvo?
Acquiring Parvo is a very easy process, and the worst part is that you don't have to get anywhere near your dog for him (or her) to acquire this illness. Simply, picking up something off the ground and allowing your dog to walk over it can result in a guy getting parvo. The virus is extremely tiny, and doesn't even need to get into your dog's mouth or nose because it can enter through the pads on your dog's feet, too.
How can parvo be prevented?
Today, a dog's exposure to parvovirus can be easily prevented by routine vaccination and other measures taken by owners.
While it's very tempting to bring your pup outside, it is highly recommended to hold it off until two weeks after their full puppy vaccination. This is to ensure that they will have full immunity against the virus.
A clean environment should be highly exercised where your pup is more exposed. Disinfection and good hygiene is the key.
The best way to prevent this disease is to keep your dog away from other dogs who could be carrying germs that cause parvo.
Lastly, visit your veterinarian for guidance and consultation.
It is imperative to get your puppy vaccinated and de-wormed as soon as possible. If you do this, you cannot only save yourself a lot of trouble later on but act responsibly towards the community of dogs you live in. While not officially a law, taking care of your pet is still considered a basic courtesy that should be given to others both to keep them safe as well as to maintain the idea that dog owners are contributing members of society.
Reli's Pet Shop offers high-quality vitamins and supplements guaranteed to improve your fur baby's life. So if you need something for your pet, contact us, and we will hook you up with some.
