This artical was in the local Central Jersey newspaper today.
PARVO BEWARE !!!!
Posted By Ward Randall On April 23, 2009 (7:39 pm) In Uncategorized
Many years ago, a disease known as parvovirus appeared on the scene, causing multiple deaths of puppies in kennels and pet stores. A vaccination was created, which is now part of a pet’s annual distemper combination shot. With annual vaccination, this brought the disease under control.
Now, through importation and movement of dogs, especially from European countries, a new genetic variant has emerged, called Parvovirus 2 C . It is found now in 15 states, including New Jersey.
This new strain can affect older dogs, as well as puppies. It causes hemorrhagic diarrhea, but also has been found to cause a mustard colored diarrhea as well. The infected pet stops eating, becomes very lethargic, and, without treatment, can die.
My veterinary hospital in Middlesex, New Jersey has recently seen three cases of this disease. All three needed isolation and intensive care, but survived.
The most important thing for a dog owner to do is to make sure your pet is up to date on its’ distemper-parvo combination shot. The old vaccine will protect against the new strain. Make sure new puppies are vaccinated at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and then yearly thereafter.
I probably would stay away from pet supply stores and dog parks with new puppies until they are at least 5 months of age. The virus can remain infectious up to 1 year in the soil.
So keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date, even if they are older, and use common sense. Beware of this new strain of parvovirus — it can be deadly !! |