Dogs and parvo

QUESTION:

What is parvovirus?

answered by Patti Iampietro

ANSWER:

Parvovirus is a viral disease that affects dogs' bone marrow by lowering white blood cell counts and therefore suppressing the immune system. It also affects the gastrointestinal tract causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Parvo is typically seen in dogs less than a year old, often without previous vaccination. It debilitates the pup by causing dehydration and malnutrition and simultaneously prevents the pup from fighting off subsequent bacterial disease by suppressing the immune system.

Treatment includes aggressive fluid therapy, antibiotics, and a focus on good nursing care and hygiene. Without prompt medical attention, parvovirus can be fatal.