The best way to prevent your pet dog from getting this horrible infection of Parvovirus is to
have them vaccinated as soon as possible. If, for any reason, you are unable to take them to the
vet or get the vaccination, it is highly recommended to keep your dog indoors. If your dog spends
most of their time outside, keep them in a contained area.
If they are not vaccinated, keep them away from other unvaccinated, stray, or generally unknown
dogs. These dogs may be carrying the virus, especially if they are exhibiting symptoms. In which
case, it is best to keep your dog away from them to lessen risk of infection.
If you want your dog to be able to meet other dogs and play at parks with unknown dogs, you should
consult the owner of the dog to inquire about the dog's health. If you don’t wish to talk to strangers,
then try to arrange play dates between your dog and the dog or dogs of an owner you trust.
If you have multiple dogs and notice symptoms arising in one or two, separate those dogs from the
ones not displaying symptoms immediately. Separate the others as well, as it could take up to 10
days after infection for symptoms to arise. Get the one showing signs of illness to the vet as quickly
as you are able to do so. Untreated Parvo easily becomes very severe, so do not waste any time getting
them checked out and thoroughly taken care of.
It is advised, though, to just get the vaccination. It will lessen the effects of the disease and
make it much easier to rid the dog of if they ever actually catch it. The difference in the severity
of the illness can and will likely save your pup's life.
The vaccination is often given in three different shots on three different days. The dogs have to
be of a certain age to qualify for the vaccination. Young puppies, specifically ones that are still
nursing, are not big enough to receive the shots. This can be troubling because the antibodies found
in the milk that the puppies get from their mothers is not sufficient enough to fend off the virus.
There are pills that are available to try to immunize the pup with a lower dosage, but it is advised
to consult a vet first.
Immunizing your dog against this virus will be one of the greatest decisions you can make as its
owner.