Canine parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a serious infectious disease that mainly affects young and unprotected dogs.

The disease is caused by a virus of the parvoviridae family: a virus of small dimensions but which is highly contagious and very resistant in the environment (it can survive about 6 months).

This virus seriously affects the immune and gastrointestinal system of dogs, causing vomiting and intense diarrhea, often with blood. The loss of fluids and nutrients leads to dehydration and severe prostration, which can be fatal if not quickly corrected.

The virus spreads easily and is transmitted through bodily secretions, especially through the feces of sick animals.

Infection between animals can therefore occur directly, from dog to dog, or indirectly via the fecal-oral route.

As this is a highly contagious disease, sick animals should be isolated for medical treatment.

Treatment is prolonged, requires hospitalization for continuous monitoring, and consists of symptom control, recovery of a good state of hydration and nutrition, and antibiotic therapy in order to avoid secondary infections and systemic disease.

The best way to prevent the disease is by vaccinating susceptible animals.

The vaccine against parvovirus is safe and effective, and is part of the vaccination plan for dogs. Vaccination is usually started between the 6th and 8th week of age, and after the first vaccination, boosters will be necessary (between the 10th and 12th week of age and a last one up to 16 weeks) to ensure adequate protection against the agents. infectious.

Keep your pet healthy and happy by protecting it from preventable diseases!