Parvovirus in dogs | How to keep your puppy safe

Let’s talk about parvovirus in dogs. This is a really serious virus, especially for puppies. It's been around since the late 1970s and affects dogs across the world. Let's dive into what it is and how we can help our dogs stay safe. Parvovirus in dogs is a nasty bug that's super contagious. It's especially dangerous for puppies between six weeks and six months old, but older dogs can catch it, too, especially if they're not in great health. If a dog with parvo gets help quickly, there's a good chance, around 90%, that they'll get better. Dogs can catch parvovirus in two main ways - direct and indirect contact. Direct contact means they can get it by sniffing or eating poop from a dog that's already sick. Indirect contact is a bit sneakier. The virus can live on things like food bowls, bedding, or even on the ground for a long time, and humans can accidentally spread it on their clothes or shoes too. When a dog gets parvo, it first hits areas like the lymph nodes and then spreads, damaging the gut and making your dog really unwell. Symptoms include tiredness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even fever. If you notice these signs, get your dog to the vet as fast as you can. Vets diagnose parvo through a physical check-up and tests like faecal ELISA, blood tests, and PCR tests. There's no specific cure for parvo, so vets focus on treating the symptoms. This includes fluid therapy to tackle dehydration, medication for vomiting and diarrhoea, and sometimes even hospitalisation. Your dog will need lots of rest and proper nutrition, and they'll have to be kept away from other dogs. The best way to prevent parvo is vaccination. Puppies should start getting their shots around 6 to 8 weeks old. Keeping your dog away from risky areas and practising good hygiene can also help. If your dog does catch parvo, make sure to keep them isolated and clean everything thoroughly. Remember, the quicker you act, the better the chances of your dog getting through it. Stay on top of vaccinations and always keep an eye out for any signs of illness. Thanks for watching. Like and subscribe for more vet-approved advice