What is Parvovirus?
Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious, often fatal intestinal virus that spreads rapidly and can cause severe illness. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells, most notably in the intestines, but also the heart and other organs.
How Parvo is Spread
The virus is incredibly resilient and can survive in the environment for up to a year! Transmission occurs through traces of feces from infected dogs (even those not showing symptoms).
- Direct contact with an infected dog.
- Contaminated environments: The virus can linger on the ground, in kennels, or on food/water bowls.
- Indirect contact: Humans can unknowingly carry the virus on their shoes, clothing, or hands and transmit it to a puppy.
Prevention is Key: Vaccination!
- Puppy Vaccination Schedule: Puppies should receive vaccinations every 3-4 weeks starting from 6 to 8 weeks of age until they are at least 16 weeks old. If the mother dog was not vaccinated within one year of giving birth, the initial vaccination should start at 6 weeks.
New Recommendation for Highly Susceptible Breeds:
These puppies should have an extra vaccination at 20 weeks of age
- Rottweilers
- Doberman Pinschers
- Bull Terrier breeds ( Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffy, Pit Bull)
- German Shepherds
- English Springer Spaniels,
Restrict Public Access: Until your puppy is fully vaccinated, keep them away from public places such as parks, pet stores, playgrounds, school grounds, and other areas where unvaccinated dogs may have been present.
**Puppies can go to obedience classes if all puppies are required Proof of current vaccinations** **Puppies can still socialize with other well-vaccinated, preferably, adult dogs**
Adult Dog Boosters: Adult dogs also need regular boosters, typically every one to three years, to maintain immunity.
Symptoms of Parvo
Symptoms can appear suddenly and progress rapidly. If you notice any of the following signs, seek immediate veterinary attention:
- Severe, often bloody, diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Extreme lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite and/or low water intake
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Fever or low body temperature
- Dehydration (tacky gums)
Treatment of Parvo
Treatment involves Hospitalization for aggressive fluid therapy, anti-nausea medication, pain medication, etc.
New revolutionary treatment now available at Cimarron: CPMA. Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody injection
Conditionally licensed by the USDA in May 2023, this single-dose treatment binds directly to the virus particles, preventing them from entering cells and dramatically improving survival rates and recovery times!
Studies show that CPMA-treated puppies experience less severe symptoms, faster resolution of vomiting and diarrhea, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional supportive care alone. There’s even evidence it may help protect exposed dogs before they develop symptoms!
At Cimarron Animal Hospital, we use every tool available, including this groundbreaking new treatment, to give affected puppies the best possible chance at survival.
If your pet shows any parvo symptoms or if you have questions about your pet’s vaccination status, please contact us immediately at Cimarron Animal Hospital.
- Call or text: 520-886-1125
- Use the PetDesk App for 24-7 access to your pet’s vaccination records and to schedule appointments
Sincerely, The Cimarron Animal Hospital Team