The parvo virus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly enemy of dogs.
Your puppy or dog can catch this virus anywhere. Extreme temperatures cannot kill the virus. Parvo is able to survive in feces and soil for over a year. It can survive on surface such as leashes, clothing, floors, and food bowls.
Puppies are especially susceptible to parvo and caution should be taken before you are able to get them vaccinated. Avoid having your puppy or dog in contact with fecal waste. Avoid taking your dog to public places such as parks where you’d be likely to come in contact with dogs and their waste.
Your best preventative measure is to have your puppy or dog vaccinated. Vaccination is the most important step to take against the parvo virus.
Puppies must be at least eight weeks old before they can start the series of 3 shots required for the parvo vaccine. Adult dogs only require and annual booster to keep them protected.
SYMPTOMS:
The parvo virus attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea.