Duane Hicks
At least three dogs currently are positive for canine parvovirus in the Fort Frances area, said local veterinarian Dr. Dan Pierroz, who is reminding dog owners that this deadly virus can be prevented through vaccination.
Parvovirus—first reported in dogs in 1978—is a potentially-lethal virus that attacks the lining of the digestive system and causes dogs and puppies to not be able to absorb nutrients or liquids.
It causes severe vomiting, colitis with bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and even death.
Spread through vomit and diarrhea, Dr. Pierroz noted “it’s highly fatal” in puppies.
He added your dog does not have to come into direct contact with an infected canine, but may just walk through some vomit or diarrhea, lick the material off its footpads, and become ill (usually within seven-10 days).
There is no cure for the parvovirus, but those infected must undergo intense treatment if they are to survive.
“The most important measure in saving affected dogs is to re-hydrate with intravenous fluids, or special fluids administered under the skin, as well as medications to control the vomiting and damage to the bowels,” Dr. Pierroz said.
But it’s much better to safeguard your dog against contracting the potentially-lethal parvovirus in the first place by getting it vaccinated regularly.
“Many dogs have died locally over the years, but they have not needed to,” Dr. Pierroz remarked.
Since 1978, the best prevention has been to have your dogs properly vaccinated, as well as keep an eye out for dog poop when taking your pet for a walk, he added.
“Preventative vaccination is, indeed, the best approach and is usually started by six weeks of age, sometimes younger if the mother dog is not vaccinated to provide protection through the milk,” explained Dr. Pierroz.
It is recommended your dog get parvovirus shots for the rest of its life.
Vaccination begins as a puppy.
After two-consecutive years of parvovirus shots, the vet will start rotating between that shot and the rabies shot each year during your dog’s check-up, Dr. Pierroz noted.
