How Can I Protect My Puppy from Canine Parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus is transmitted through oral contact with an infected dog, feces from an infected dog, or surfaces that have been exposed to the virus, such as the ground and shoes. Canine Parvovirus is species specific, which means, it can only be contracted by dogs and puppies from other dogs and puppies. Cats have their own version of the parvovirus called Feline Distemper, but it is not contracted from dogs, only other cats.

Although there are different variations of the canine parvovirus, this article focuses on the most common type affecting the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and puppies. Some of the main symptoms of the Canine Parvovirus include loss of appetite, severe diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, you should get them to a Veterinary clinic immediately.

Canine parvovirus is a horrible disease that kills the cells in the intestines lining. Because of this, the dog is unable to absorb nutrients and fluids. The virus can lead to death if not treated properly and in time. However, with extensive treatment usually taking place initially in a vet clinic, dogs can recover from the virus.

So how can you protect your new puppy from Canine Parvovirus?

1. Know where your puppy is coming from

It is important to be clear on the environment your puppy is coming from. Ask the following questions before bringing a new puppy home:

Is the mother current on her Vaccines? Have the puppies or the mother been exposed to other dogs that are either not vaccinated against Canine Parvovirus, or are not current on the vaccine? Has the mother, puppies, or any dogs they have been exposed to shown any symptoms of Parvovirus? Have the puppies had their first vaccines, and if so, when? Ask for proof of vaccination.

It is also important that you check out the mother, puppies, any other dogs in the household, and the environment before you decide to bring a puppy home.

2. When to Vaccinate

Puppies need to receive their first DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Para influenza, Parvovirus) combination vaccine at six to eight weeks of age. Afterwards, they'll need to receive follow up vaccines every three weeks until they are sixteen to twenty weeks old. It is important that the follow up vaccines be given on time. Your veterinarian will let you know the exact time the next vaccines are due. Do not wait until that date passes, as you may be required to restart the entire vaccine series.

Why would you need to restart?

Puppies receive antibodies from their mother's milk while they are nursing; this provides them immunity to viruses such as Canine Parvovirus. After the puppies are weaned, however, they no longer receive those antibodies and therefore are not protected against the diseases. Since their immune systems are incapable of fighting off disease during this time, giving the DHLPP combo vaccine in a series, on time, until the puppy is at least four months old keeps the puppy protected against the viruses until they develop a long lasting immunity.

After the final vaccine is given, your dog will be protected for one year. After the one year vaccine is administered, the vaccine will need to be given every three years after that, although the requirements vary by location.

3. Avoid potentially contaminated areas

Until your puppy has received the full series of DHLPP vaccinations, you'll want to avoid areas that may be contaminated. This includes pet stores, parks, and almost any public area. It's best to simply keep the puppy off the ground, unless you are at home and know there is no risk of infection. Do not allow the puppy to socialize with unvaccinated dogs.

If you go to places where you may be exposed to contaminated areas (which, remember can be almost any public place), be sure to clean your shoes when you get home, wash your hands thoroughly, and change your clothing before touching your puppy.

4. Talk to Your Pet's Veterinarian

This article is meant to provide some basic information about how you can protect your puppy from Canine Parvovirus. It is not intended to replace the advice and guidance of a licensed Veterinarian.

Your pet's veterinarian will be able to inform you about the Canine Parvovirus and it's potential risks. They'll also help you more thoroughly understand what you can do to help prevent infection in your new puppy, and keep them protected throughout their life.

Follow the veterinarian's instructions precisely. And, remember too, that the cost of the vaccines is significantly lower than the cost to treat a puppy or dog infected with Canine Parvovirus.

Note: For More pet care related articles, see the links on the left listed under resources.

References:

Sarah Netter "Recent Parvo Outbreaks Worries Dog Community" http://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=5843526&page=1

"Dog Vaccination Information: General Info" http://www.luvmypet.com/vaccination-info.html

"Canine Parvovirus: Overview, Transmission, Incidence" http://www.animalhealthchannel.com/canine-parvovirus/index.shtml

"Protect Your Dog from Canine Parvovirus" http://www.co.washington.or.us/deptmts/hhs/news/parvo07.htm