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Memorial Road Pet Hospital

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Parvo

What Is Parvo?

"Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective health investments in history." - Seth Berkley

Vet with puppy

What is Parvo?

Parvovirus is a very deadly disease that primarily affects puppies.

It can be transmitted by any person, animal, or object that comes in contact with an infected dog's feces.

This virus is very difficult to kill and can live in the environment for up to a year.

Puppy in a basket.

Signs & Symptoms

Parvo causes severe nausea and vomiting by attacking the lining of the intestine.

The virus also attacks the bone marrow. This affects the patient's ability to produce white blood cells that fight the disease.

Symptoms most often include persistent and frequent diarrhea and vomiting, fever, and lethargy.

Dog on couch

Prevention

The best prevention is vaccination. Make sure you vaccinate your puppy on time.

If your puppy hasn't received all of their vaccinations yet, they're not fully protected.

Try to avoid places where other dogs have been, like the dog park or the pet store.

To learn more about Parvovirus, click here.