Parvovirus mainly known as  “Parvo” infects dogs and can make them very ill. Fortunately there is a vaccination  for this horrible disease for your dog. It is so important to get the proper vaccinations for your dog when they are puppies. Parvo first appreared in the late 1970’s and many dogs have passed away from it.

Parvo virus appears in dogs in 3 different ways. The virus can show up intestinaly in your dog  the symptoms include vomitting, lethargy, loss of appetite, diarhea and fever. The virus can also cause interanal damage to the intestinal tracts. The virus can also show up causing cardiac problems, by increasing swelling in the heart muscles making it hard for your dog to breath. Cardiac problems from parvo are far less common but are very deadly for puppies less than 8 weeks of age. The virus can also be asymptomatic and have no signs of infection. The virus can be diagnosed by a Veteranarian by a phsical exam and fecal test. The Veterinanrian also may request bloodwork.

Once a dog is diagnossed with the Parvo virus there are some different treatments that can be given. If the dog has been infected intestinally the Veterinarian may administer nausea medication and intavenous fluid to prevent dehydration. Other treatments include blood and plasma transfusions, antibiotics, and oral electrolyte fluids.

Prevention is always better than treatment. Vaccination is the best thing you can do to protect your dog. Vaccination schedules begin as early as 6 weeks and will then be adminitered at 9 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks and 20 weeks.