Parvovirus
Is Deadly
Parvovirus is a word
that is not to be taken lightly. For most dog
owners, this word is the most dreaded thing to come out of
the veterinarian's
mouth. This virus causes the most common infectious disease
among dogs in the United States. Aside from being common,
it also is very deadly. Ignoring the symptoms of such will
certainly result in death among canines.
Dog owners have to remain vigilant to signs and symptoms
that point to the disease. Parvovirus is a highly contagious
disease that manifests itself through diarrhea and bloody
stool. It is caused by the canine parvovirus (CPV-2).
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of parvovirus differ among dogs infected
by such. Unfortunately, some dogs show very few symptoms.
Some do not show any at all. Typically, parvovirus causes
severe enteritis, or an inflammation of the intestines. This
further leads to vomiting, diarrhea - which may be bloody,
dark feces, dehydration, and lethargy. This virus will affect
any breed, sex and age of dog. The virus manifests itself
more severely among younger puppies.
There are a few breeds that are more susceptible to parvovirus
than others. Among them are Rottweilers, Labradors, and Doberman
Pinschers. Puppies six months and below usually manifest a
more serious form of the disease.
After the onset of this disease, the dog
could die in as little as two days if not given immediate
and proper treatment. The virus typically takes 7 to 14 days
to incubate. Active excretion of this virus through feces
could begin as early as 3 days.
How the Virus Spreads.
Parvovirus can survive even on inanimate objects for up to
five months. They particularly thrive on animals such as rats
and insects. To prevent dogs from being infected, owners must
keep kennels and surroundings clean. The virus can be spread
through infected items such as clothing, food pans, cages,
etc.
To disinfect such, cleaning the above mentioned articles
with a 1:32 dilution of bleach or ยจรถ cup per gallon is necessary.
One may also expose the articles to Ultraviolet rays. Lots
of sunlight can help eliminate the presence of these viruses.
It would do well to make sure that everything the dog will
come in contact with is clean. Try avoiding having your dog
come into contact with infected dogs and articles.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Although not all vomiting and bloody diarrhea is caused by
parvovirus, it would still pay to take a trip to the veterinarian
for a check up. The only way to verify whether a dog has parvovirus
or not is clinical and laboratory diagnosis. It would be better
to err on the side of safety on this matter. If you think
your dog has the parvovirus, a quick trip to the veterinarian
won't be in vain.
To treat the disease, a veterinarian will most likely recommend
supportive therapy. This will involve replacing the fluids
lost due to diarrhea and vomiting. This will probably be an
electrolyte solution administered intravenously. In less severe
cases, oral solutions will suffice. Antibiotics may be given
to control secondary infections. Medicines to control vomiting
may also be given.
When the parvovirus symptoms subside, a de-worming agent
may be used. Your veterinarian will also probably restrict
the food the dog may take.
Fortunately, dogs that have recovered from the virus are
immune from re-infection for the next twenty months. There
is also a good chance that your dog
will be immune for the rest of its life.
You may also want to consider vaccines for your puppies.
You will want to consult your veterinarian on the right circumstances
and effects of a vaccination for you dog. Vaccination may
prove to be the best line of defense against parvovirus.
In the End
Parvovirus is not one disease to be taken lightly. It is
a disease with a high rate of mortality, especially among
puppies. Although one should not panic at the first hint of
the disease, it should, at least, be taken seriously. Fortunately,
through proper care and medication, the chances for survival
after an infection are relatively high. But be warned that
some cases, even with the best care and attention available,
prove to be fatal. The best chance for preventing this disease
is good information and vigilant hygiene.
Learn Holistic At-Home Remedies from Dr.
Andrew Jones by
downloading this "Healing Your Pets At Home" FREE
book Now!
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