Tips to Prevent Parvovirus in Your Dog or Puppy

As his little head turns to the side in hopes that his cuteness makes me change my mind ☺️

Took our Kobe for his parvo shot today and he didn’t make a peep 😊 He’s always such a good boy! We’ve never had a problem with him wanting to jump in the car to go for a ride even if our destination was to go to the Vet. The one and only time he’s cried was due to Paul and I being out of the room for one of his first round of shots. (Which we could overhear from the waiting room and absolutely broke our hearts) Ever since we’ve been right by his side and he takes whatever comes his way like a champ! Even gives kisses after 😘 Our little man is now weighing in at 12.4 pounds of lovable littleness 🐶

Here’s Kobe right after his apppintment today with a big smile on his face 😃 Always so happy!

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Keep your dog healthy and parvo-free with these tips:

1.) Make sure your dog is properly vaccinated! Puppies should receive their first vaccines at 6-8 weeks of age; boosters should be administered at three-week intervals until the puppy is 16 weeks of age, and then again at one year of age. Previously vaccinated adult dogs need boosters every year.

2.) Limit your puppy or unvaccinated dog’s exposure to other dogs until he or she’s had their first two vaccinations, unless you are sure the other dogs are fully vaccinated.

3.) Avoid places where your puppy or unvaccinated dog could be exposed to parvovirus from unvaccinated dogs. Dog parks, pet stores, play groups, and other public areas should be avoided until your dog or puppy is fully vaccinated.

4.) When visiting your vet for wellness check-ups and vaccinations, carry your puppy in your arms outside and leave him or her on your lap while waiting in the lobby. Walking where other dogs have walked and gone to the bathroom will increase your puppy’s risk of contracting disease.

5.) Parvovirus is very difficult to kill and can live in the environment for over a year. If you suspect your house or yard has been infected, clean with a 1:32 dilution of bleach (1/2 cup bleach in a gallon of water). Regular soaps and disinfectants DO NOT kill parvovirus. Areas that cannot be cleaned with bleach may remain contaminated. Remember, the virus can survive on a variety of objects, including food bowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors. Because parvovirus can live in an environment for months, you will want to take extra care if there has been an infected dog in your house or yard. Some things are easier to clean and disinfect than others-and even with excellent cleaning, parvovirus can be difficult to eradicate. The infected dog’s toys, food dish and water bowl should be properly cleaned and then disinfected with this solution for 10 minutes. If not disinfected, these articles should be discarded. You can also use the solution on the soles of your shoes if you think you've walked through an infected area. Areas that are harder to clean (grassy areas, carpeting and wood, for example) may need to be sprayed with disinfectant, or even resurfaced.

6.) If you work or spend time in places where you have contact with dogs, change your clothes and shoes before returning home to your dog or puppy.

7.) If your dog or puppy is vomiting, has diarrhea, is not eating or is lethargic, you should take him or her to the vet as soon as possible!! These are all symptoms of parvovirus. Remember, infected dogs may show only one symptom!

8.) If you are considering adopting a new dog, it is encouraged that you leave your unvaccinated puppies or dogs at home. It is very important to do a meet and greet, but take the time to make sure your dog is fully vaccinated first!

What Are the General Symptoms of Parvovirus?

The general symptoms of parvovirus are lethargy, severe vomiting, loss of appetite and bloody, foul-smelling diarrhea that can lead to life-threatening dehydration.

How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed?

Veterinarians diagnose parvovirus on the basis of clinical signs and laboratory testing. A test kit is used to detect parvovirus in a dog’s stools, and is performed in the vet’s office in about 15 minutes. Because this test is not 100% sensitive or specific, your veterinarian may recommend additional tests and bloodwork.

How Can Parvovirus Be Prevented?

You can protect your dog from this potential killer by making sure he’s up-to-date on his vaccinations. Parvovirus should be considered a core vaccine for all puppies and adult dogs. It is usually recommended that puppies be vaccinated with combination vaccines that take into account the risk factors for exposure to various diseases. One common vaccine, called a “5-in-1,” protects the puppy from distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainfluenza.

Generally, the first vaccine is given at 6-8 weeks of age and a booster is given at four-week intervals until the puppy is 16-20 weeks of age, and then again at one year of age. A puppy’s vaccination program is not complete before four months of age. Older dogs who have not received full puppy vaccination series may be susceptible to parvovirus and should also receive at least one immunization. Consult with your veterinarian about how often your dog will need to be revaccinated.

I want my baby to live as long as possible and I know you want the same for yours too! That’s why this is so important. I hope this helped you or someone you know! We all just want what’s best for our little ones after all ❤️

XO ~ Kylie