If you’re a pup parent, you’ve probably heard of parvovirus. But just why is it such a feared disease?
Canine parvovirus attacks the intestinal lining of dogs, particularly puppies, destroying the protective barrier and short-circuiting intestinal function. The resulting dehydration and other symptoms can be fatal.
Parvovirus is very contagious, being passed in the stool of infected dogs. Any contaminated object can also spread it.
Treatment is expensive and not a sure thing. In contrast, vaccination costs much less and is generally very effective. Protective antibodies inherited from mom fade by the time your pup is 4 to 6 weeks old, so that’s when you should schedule the first of three to four vaccinations. Until the immunization series is complete, keep your pup clear of areas frequented by other dogs.