25/01/2024
PARVO ALERT! Our parvo cases are rapidly increasing. Please keep your dogs safe.
We have created this list of frequently asked questions (F.A.Q.). If after reading this you have further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!
1. What is parvo?
Parvo is a very nasty virus that attacks a dog's intestines. It mostly affects puppies and young dogs.
2. What are the signs of Parvo?
As Parvo attacks the intestines it causes dogs to stop eating, start vomiting and they often get bloody diarrhoea.
3. How does a dog get Parvo?
Dogs get Parvo from contact with contaminated poo particles. Dogs can sniff up these particles directly from an infected dog or pick them up from sniffing the ground where a sick dog has been. These particles can survive for many months and they can be brought into your house under your shoes.
4. Is there a way to prevent my dog from getting Parvo?
YES! Fortunately we have a very effective vaccine available, as long as your dog receives its full course of vaccinations it will protect your dog and prevent it from getting Parvo.
5. What is the best way to treat my sick dog?
Most dogs are so unwell they need to be admitted at the vet clinic. They are put on a drip and treated with drugs to stop the vomiting and treat infections. This treatment is intensive and costly but offers the best chance of survival for your dog.
6. Can I treat a dog with Parvo at home?
If your dog is still drinking you can try and treat Parvo at home. Your veterinarian can provide you with medication to help, but your dog will depend on you to pull it through. Water and electrolytes are critical as sick dogs lose so much of these with the vomiting and diarrhoea. Often dogs will be too sick to try treatment at home.
7. How do I stop Parvo from spreading?
Firstly: keep your sick dog away from other dogs and keep unvaccinated dogs away from areas where the sick dog has been. If possible, disinfect all areas the sick dog has been. This can be done with household bleach, using one cup of bleach per 30 cups of water. And remember that Parvo can linger for up to a year, so don't immediately get a new unvaccinated puppy, as it is likely to get sick as well.
