Canine Parvovirus
by Dr. Christine Welch

Canine Parvovirus became known in the late 1970's. It is thought that it began as a mutation of the feline distemper virus. One it had surfaced it caused a widespread epidemic which resulted in thousands of deaths among both wild and domestic canines.

Parvovirus is characterized by severe, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, high fever and lethargy. The diarrhea is particularly foul smelling and is sometimes yellow in color. Parvo can also attack a dog's heart causing congestive heart failure. This complication can occur months or years after an apparent recovery from the intestinal form of the disease. Puppies who survive parvo infection usually remain somewhat un-healthy and weak for life.

The surest way to avoid parvo infection in your dog is to adhere to the recommended vaccination schedule which begins when puppies are 6-8 weeks of age. Puppies should not be allowed to socialize with other dogs or frequent areas where other dogs have been until 2 weeks after they have had their last vaccination. Immunization for parvo is usually included in your dog's distemper vaccine. This shot gives protection against several potential fatal canine disease all at the same time.

As there is no cure for the virus, treatment or parvo is mostly that of supporting the different systems in the body during the course of the disease. This included giving fluids, regulating electrolyte levels, controlling body temperature and giving blood transfusions when necessary.

Again I would like to stress the ease with which infection with Parvo can occur in any unvaccinated dog. The virus is extremely hardy in the environment. Withstanding wide temperature fluctuations and most cleaning agents. Parvo can be brought home to your dog on shoes, hands and even car tires. It can live for many months outside the animal. Any areas that are thought to be contaminated with parvo should be thoroughly washed with chlorine bleach diluted 1 ounce per quart of water.