Parvovirus a nasty problem for dogs

Not a judgement, but lets share with everyone we know the advantage of vaccinating puppies to prevent parvo (parvovirus) Let’s share because it is on the rise in Perth at the moment. Let’s share because treatment is expensive, it takes time to work and requires a serious financial outlay…unfortunately without a 100% guarantee of survival.

Common signs of parvo

Common signs are bloody vomiting, bloody diarrhea, depression, fever, abdominal pain, collapse and dehydration.

How is it transmitted

As emergency vets we know it as a vicious virus transmitted in the smallest amount of dog poo. Sadly, there is even some evidence that this virus can live in the ground for up to a year, so, that means every park, street, house, even the soles of your shoes can potentially carry the virus. It damages the intestinal lining and bone marrow. It causes extreme damage to the immune system. Extreme damage occurs to the gut lining leaving puppies vulnerable to secondary bacterial infection.

Treatment

Treatment is extensive with recovery taking many days.  The treatment plan includes pain relief, anti-vomiting medications, broad spectrum antibiotics, large quantities of intravenous fluids, plasma transfusions and frequent blood tests. During this time infection is a concern requiring extreme intensive nursing and veterinary care. With intensive therapy, the success rate is approximately 70%.

Prevention

Vaccination can make puppies less susceptible to infection. They receive two vaccinations. The first vaccine should occur at 6-8 weeks of age. The second vaccine at 10 weeks. It is our recommendation that taking them to the park, friends places and out in the community does not happen until 2 weeks after the second vaccination. This is because the vaccine needs to take effect and does not instantly protect.  Previously vaccinated adult dogs need boosters every year. Older dogs with an unknown vaccination history can have first vaccine and then 4 weeks later the second vaccine.  If uncertain, vaccination is recommended.