Call Us Today

TLC for Pets

hamburger

Parvo

One of the most common diseases in dogs is canine parvovirus or parvo. The reason why it is so common is that it is incredibly contagious. Fortunately, there are vaccines available from our veterinarians to protect your puppy or dog from parvo. If you live in or around Reisterstown and Owings Mills and need to get your furry friend vaccinated for parvo, contact our veterinarians at TLC For Pets.

What is Parvo?

Parvo is a virus that attacks a dog’s DNA. It targets body cells that divide rapidly, like bone marrow or cells in the digestive system.

The Symptoms of Parvo

Puppies or dogs with parvo lose their appetites, vomit, have bloody diarrhea, have a fever, and are very weak. Any dogs or puppies experiencing these symptoms need to be taken to a veterinarian’s office immediately. Puppies are especially prone to die within a few days of first showing symptoms because their small bodies dehydrate quite rapidly.

How Is Parvo Spread?

One of the reasons why parvo is so common is because it spreads so easily. Dogs and puppies get it from contact with infected dogs, from the sick dog’s feces, from anything a sick dog has touched, or even from being handled by a person who has had contact with the sick dog or puppy. The virus lives for a long time on the surface, and at a variety of temperatures.

Preventing Parvo

Parvo is incurable. Many dogs and some puppies survive the disease with prompt treatment from a veterinarian. The best way to protect your dog from parvo is with vaccinations. Parvo is considered a core vaccine, or a vaccine that veterinarians recommend for puppies and dogs. Not only will a vaccine protect your dog, but it will also protect other dogs that your dog comes into contact with.

Contact Our Veterinarians at TLC for Pets

Contact TLC For Pets if you have questions about protecting your dog against canine parvovirus and live in the Reisterstown or Owings Mills areas. Call our team today at (410) 833-1717 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.