The Parvovirus and Your Dog

Until yesterday, I had never heard of Parvo
I am nearly 35 years old and have had a dog in the family since I was at least 2. Currently, my family has two wonderful dogs: Girl, the black-lab/dobie mix and Jasmine, the white rescued American Staffordshire Terrier.

Until yesterday, I had never heard the word Parvo. I had to consult Google just to learn how it was spelled. I learned of it as a result of my wife's efforts to assist in finding a home for a rescued pit bull puppy. The preferred recipient could not adopt the wanting lad because their home was infected with the Parvovirus. "The what?" I asked.

All of our family animals have always had their shots up to date. Never has a vet illustrated the need for caution in relation to the Parvovirus. Heatworm? Sure. Rabies? Less likely, but worth the shot. I must say, it sounds scary. And it is not nearly as rare as I would think considering that I had never heard of it.

The Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that transmits primarily via fecal matter although it can continue as a contagion on virtually anything the infected dog contacts. And it is hardy. The virus can survive for nine months or longer and is not eradicated by most household disinfectants. Most resources I have found recommend a heavy dose of chlorine bleach to any area suspected of contamination. If you have ever stepped in doggy doo and, despite a good cleaning, wore those shoes into your house at any time over the next nine months, you have created quite an opportunity for the virus to contaminate. How exactly do you bleach your coach, your carpet, your rugs? If you've ever tried to rid your home of fleas, you may just be able to understand a smidgen of the difficulty you would face in ridding your house of this virus.

The Parvovirus affects puppies more aggressively than older dogs although any dog is susceptible. The virus attacks the digestive system of the dog. In younger dogs, the virus can attack the heart and lead to what is described as "sudden death." Any death sounds bad, but "sudden death" would be particularly difficult to describe to my six year old son.

And THERE IS NO CURE.

Are you ready for some good news? Professionals estimate that 80% of puppies infected will survive if treated within the first day that the illness presents itself. However, they are left simply with the task of keeping the puppy alive while they fight off the virus themselves.

There is a vaccine, but it must be given when the puppy is very young. The vaccine requires multiple shots every three weeks from age 6 weeks to age 20 weeks. Since our animals are almost always adopted as a result of a rescue, this is not often feasible. Jasmine was over a year old when we adopted her.

The Parvovirus is specific to dogs. Humans, cats, fish, and other common household pets are not susceptible.

So what to do? If you're like me, you're going to stop by the vet with a few questions.