All about Parvovirus
Canine parvovirus is generally regarded as Parvo. It is a very dangerous disease that mostly affects young puppies. It affects the gastrointestinal system of the dog. In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about parvovirus. We will take a detailed look at the transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Parvo.
👉 Transmission
Parvo can be transmitted from an infected dog to a healthy dog by two methods.
- Direct Method
- Indirect Method
In the direct method, the virus can be transmitted if the healthy dog comes in contact with the infected dog. The nasal droplets or secretions have parvovirus and if the healthy dog is too near the infected dog, he is likely to get sick with parvo.
In the indirect method, non-living substances can become the medium of transmission. For example, if the infected dog touches a cloth, and then the healthy dog touches that cloth, the disease can occur in a healthy dog.
When the virus has entered the body of the dog, it does not cause disease immediately. It multiplies for some days. The period between entry of the virus into the body and the appearance of symptoms is called the incubation period. The cycle of parvo can be divided into 3 stages
1. Infection
2. Incubation
3. Illness
👉 Symptoms of Parvo
The most important signs of parvo showed by the dogs are following
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
- Depression
As mentioned earlier, parvo affects the gastrointestinal system of the dog. the intestine of the dog is responsible for the absorption of digested food and water. When the dog is infected with parvo, this absorption does not happen properly so more water is lost through feces thus leading to diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea lead to dehydration. This causes weakness and lack of appetite in the dog.
👉 Diagnosis of Parvo
Parvo can be diagnosed by the history and physical examination of the dog. Certain tests can be used for confirmation of the disease. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) is one such test that can be used. It requires a fecal swab and the disease can be diagnosed in 10 minutes.
👉 Treatment of Parvo
Sadly, there is no definite treatment of parvo yet. It is a viral disease so the best option is to improve the immune status of the dog so that the natural immunity of the dog can defeat this disease. The focus should be on the diet and a gastric tube may be used if needed.
As mentioned earlier, dehydration is the most devastating impact of parvo so try to keep the dog hydrated. Fluid therapy should be done if needed. Antibiotics should also be given to help the immune system of the dog. Dogs infected with parvo generally recover within 5 to 10 days after the signs appear.
👉 Prevention
As parvo is transmitted from infected dogs, good hygiene can help your dog remain healthy. Vaccination is available against parvovirus. The first shot of the vaccine is given at age of 6 weeks and then a booster is given 3 weeks later. An annual booster injection is given annually.
Be careful when your dog is outside. Do not allow contact with stray dogs. Cleaning and disinfection of the kennel should be done regularly. Younger puppies are more susceptible and require more care and attention.
Blog courtesy by PuppyTrucks
