At ICARE, we are committed to providing the best care possible for every dog that comes through our doors. One of the most critical steps in ensuring the health of our dogs, especially puppies, is protecting them from parvovirus—commonly known as parvo. In this blog post, we’ll explain what parvo is, why it’s so serious, the signs you should watch for, who is most at risk, and how ICARE takes steps to prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.
What is Parvo?
Parvo is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily targets the gastrointestinal system of dogs, though it can also affect the heart muscles in very young puppies. The virus spreads easily through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated objects like food bowls, bedding, or even on the hands and clothing of people who have handled an infected dog.
How Serious is Parvo?
Parvo is one of the most serious diseases that can affect dogs, particularly puppies. Without prompt treatment, the mortality rate is alarmingly high, reaching up to 90% in severe cases. Even with treatment, the virus can be life-threatening, making early detection and prevention crucial. Parvo causes severe dehydration, damages the intestines, and weakens the immune system, leaving the dog vulnerable to other infections.
Signs and Symptoms of Parvo
Recognizing the signs of parvo early is essential for effective treatment. Here are the key symptoms to watch for:
- Severe vomiting: Dogs with parvo often experience intense vomiting, which can lead to rapid dehydration.
- Diarrhea: Often bloody, the diarrhea associated with parvo is frequent and can be extremely dehydrating.
- Lethargy: Infected dogs typically become very tired, weak, and uninterested in their usual activities.
- Loss of appetite: A dog with parvo will usually refuse food and water.
- Fever: A high fever is common in the early stages of parvo, though some dogs may have a lower-than-normal temperature instead.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, especially if they are a puppy or unvaccinated, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Who is Most Susceptible to Parvo?
Puppies between the ages of six weeks to six months are the most susceptible to parvo. The virus is particularly dangerous for puppies who haven’t completed their full vaccination series. Certain breeds, including Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and American Pit Bull Terriers, are also at a higher risk of contracting parvo.
While adult dogs can also be affected, the disease is generally more severe in puppies, making vaccination and early preventive care critical.
How ICARE Prevents Parvo
At ICARE, the health and safety of our dogs are our top priorities. We take several important steps to prevent the spread of parvo among our dogs:
- Vaccination: Every dog that comes into our care receives a comprehensive vaccination, including protection against parvo. This is a key part of our commitment to ensuring that all our dogs are healthy and ready for adoption.
- Quarantine: We quarantine all puppies for a set number of days upon arrival. This precautionary measure allows us to monitor for any signs of parvo or other illnesses before they are introduced to the general dog population. By isolating new arrivals, we minimize the risk of spreading parvo to other dogs in our care.
- Hygiene and Sanitation: We maintain strict hygiene standards in our facilities, regularly cleaning and disinfecting areas where dogs are housed. This helps to reduce the risk of virus transmission through contaminated surfaces.
Parvo is a serious and potentially deadly virus, but with proper care and preventive measures, it can be effectively managed. At ICARE, we go above and beyond to ensure that every dog in our care is vaccinated against parvo and other common diseases. Through our quarantine procedures and dedication to maintaining a clean environment, we strive to keep all our dogs safe and healthy.
Remember, adopting a dog is a lifelong commitment, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Visit us or contact us to learn more about our adoption process and how we work to protect the health of every dog we rescue.