Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a contagious disease
attacking cells that rapidly reproduce. It can occur at any age but is
ordinarily seen in puppies around 6 to 20 weeks old. There are two types
of CPV, intestinal and cardiac. Intestinal CPV is most common and is
distinguished by diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and weight
loss. Cardiac CPV is usually only seen in very young puppies and attacks
their heart muscles, typically resulting in death. Vaccination is
extremely important and can help prevent Canine Parvovirus. Certain
breeds, namely Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers, are particularly
susceptible to infection so extra caution should be taken.
CPV can be contracted directly or indirectly.
Most dogs obtain the virus via fecal-oral contact. Heavy concentrations
of Canine Parvovirus are excreted in an infected dog’s stools, so if a
healthy dog sniffs or licks contaminated feces, it can contract the
disease. Even indirect contact with fecal matter on an owner’s shoes can
bring the disease into an environment. The virus is extremely resilient
and can live in soil for up to one year, and it is resistant to weather
changes and most cleaning products. If you suspect CPV to be present in
your home, bleach is the only household disinfectant known to kill the
virus. Should you bleach any surface your pet comes into contact with,
be sure they are not present and do not ingest the bleach. Also, cats
cannot contract parvovirus, but they can be carriers for it. If you have
a household with multiple pets, it is important to be sure that one
isn’t infecting another.
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