A leading veterinary charity has issued a warning to dog owners about a dangerous virus that can manifest various symptoms in their pets, including oral indications. The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) advises that as owners take their dogs out for walks or allow them outdoor activities in the garden, there is a potential risk.
The PDSA highlights that parvovirus can result in “severe illness and fatality in dogs. It causes damage to the gut lining, resulting in intense diarrhea and vomiting. Additionally, it targets immune system cells in the bone marrow, leading to immune system weakening.”
They emphasize that this “highly contagious virus” can persist in the environment for extended periods, with vaccination being the only effective prevention method. It is crucial to ensure that your dog receives regular vaccinations throughout its life to safeguard against this virus.
Also known as parvo, canine parvovirus (CPV) specifically attacks the intestinal lining, leading to severe vomiting and diarrhea. Furthermore, it impacts infection-fighting cells in the bone marrow, making recovery particularly challenging for dogs.
The charity further warns that this can be “especially hazardous for unvaccinated dogs and puppies under six months old” due to their underdeveloped immune systems, which struggle to combat the virus effectively.
Symptoms of parvovirus typically manifest within three to seven days and may include:
Dogs can contract parvovirus while exploring their surroundings, such as parks or gardens. Infected dogs shed the virus in their feces within a few days of infection, remaining contagious for weeks after symptoms resolve.
Unfortunately, the virus can survive in the environment for extended periods, making it prevalent in areas frequented by dogs, like parks, gardens, and fields. It can also spread through contaminated surfaces, affecting various items and even human hands.
As there is no cure for parvovirus, affected dogs require intensive care and immediate medical attention. Without treatment, the virus can be fatal. According to the PDSA, a dog’s chances of survival significantly increase with prompt veterinary care upon symptom onset.
The experts explain that “Dogs receiving timely intensive care during hospitalization at a veterinary clinic are much more likely to survive. However, due to the severity of parvovirus, some dogs may not survive even with treatment. Untreated parvovirus is almost always fatal, with puppies under two weeks old being particularly vulnerable.”