Parvo in dogs
Parvo in dogs is clinically known to be canine parvo. the virus causing this fatal disease comes from the parvovirus family. this virus mainly affecting immunosuppressed dogs. It is very contagious that it can infect all dogs at the same time. Parvo in dogs does not have a cure that is why extra preventive measures should be observed to prevent this from happening to our beloved pets.
Parvo in dogs is the most common, mortality increasing infectious disease among the canine species.. It is associated with numerous detrimental complications such as ulcerative enteritis, electrolyte imbalance and heart failure. Diarrhea is also a common symptom. Wastes appear to be yellowish and sometimes bloody. Parvovirus has multiplied and mutated all throughout the years but the most common strain is CPV-2B. cases have been fluctuating recently due to parvo vaccines given to dogs but there are still reporrted cases of parvo in dogs despite the vaccination programs
As mentioned, parvo in dogs can be transmitted with ease and it is characterized with blood tinged diarrhea. Incubation period can happen within hours and may cause death within two to three days after incubation period. Parvo in dogs can be spread via contact with feces of infected dogs and objects. This infection can also be transmitted via rodents and insects.
Prevention of parvo in dogs is the same as prevention for rabies. Pet owners should be sure that dogs have all the necessary vaccinations to be parvo-free.
Initial vaccination is given when the dog is six to eight weeks old. Until eight weeks, puppies still have maternal antibodies which protects them against any other infection. After 8 weeks, it builds up its own defense system against illnesses. Unless a dog is in high risk for parvo infection, booster shots may be delayed or terminated after a few years.
Parvo in Dogs Disease Dynamics
Parvovirus is a tough and hard virus. The virus can survive outside a dog’s body for a very long period of time. It can live on floors, containers, jars and other household objects especially on rugs or clothing which are very difficult to sanitize. Insects and rodents move the virus from one place to another. It is also heat and phenolic disinfectant-resistant. The use of ordinary bleach with a concentrated preparation which constitutes one part bleach and twenty parts water can inactivate and kill the virus. This works better when materials are first washed and cleaned.
Parvo in Dogs Symptoms
Symptoms of parvo in dogs vary, depending on the immune system of the infected dog. It may come as a mild illness to a very morbid one. Bloody and smelly diarrhea, high grade fever, anorexia, depression, and lethargy can be observed. Dehydration and malabsorption of nutrients are the major problems encountered in parvo in dogs. Supportive care such as infusion of fluids, vitamins and electrolytes are indicated for severe cases
Treatment and rehabilitation
Treatment for Parvo in dogs is focused on correcting life-threatening complications. To most of the recovered dogs, lifetime immunity is achieved. Many efficient vaccines are available on the drugg stores. These vaccines contain live attenuated parvovirus which are proven safe and will produce good immunity when the last dose is given at eighteen weeks of age.
Treatment of parvovirus is directed at correcting the life-threatening dehydration that accompanies the diarrhea with intravenous fluids (lactated ringers solution with bicarbonate)
Recovered dogs are probably immune for life. Because of the strong immunity that follows infection, carrier dogs do not exist.There are cases that vaccines fail to serve its purpose. This is brought by insufficient passive maternal immunity in the bloodstream.
To conclude, parvo in dogs can be prevented through early detection and immediate treatment.
