| mmyorkies | 08-09-2006 09:41 AM |
Here is information about Parvo that I have on my site. Hope it helps some. You have to be careful your other dog does not get it and cleaan the area that they stay in really good.
Canine Parvovirus is an acute, highly contagious disease of dogs that was first described in the early 1970's. The virus has a special affinity for attacking rapidly reproducing cells, such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract. The disease is transmitted by oral contact with infected feces. The virus is shed in large amounts in the stools of acutely infected dogs for up to several weeks following infection. Parvo can be carried on the dog's hair and feet, as well as on contaminated crates, shoes, and other objects.
Parvo affects dogs of all ages, but most cases occur in puppies 6 to 20 weeks of age. Following an incubation period that averages four to five days, the acute illness begins with depression, vomiting and diarrhea. Some dogs have no fever, while others have high fever (up to 106°F). Pups with severe abdominal pain exhibit a tucked-up abdomen. Diarrhea is profuse and contains mucus and/or blood. Dehydration develops rapidly.
Suspect parvo in all pups with the abrupt onset of vomiting and diarrhea. The most efficient way to diagnose parvo is to identify either the virus or the virus antigens in stools. An in-office blood serum test (ELISA) is available for rapid veterinary diagnosis. False negatives do occur. Virus isolation techniques are more precise, but require an outside laboratory.
TREATMENT: This disease requires intensive veterinary management. In all but mild cases, hospitalization is essential to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Intravenous fluids and medications to control vomiting and diarrhea are often required. Puppies and dogs should not eat or drink until the vomiting has stopped. This can take three to five days. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent septicemia and other bacterial complications, which are the usual cause of death. The outcome depends upon the virulence of the specific strain of parvovirus, the and and the immune status of the dog, and how quickly the treatment is started.
PREVENTION: Thoroughly clean and disinfect the quarters of infected animals. Parvo is an extremely hardy virus that resists most household cleaners and survives on premises for months. The most effective disinfectant is household bleach in a 1:32 dilution. The bleach must be left on the contaminated surface for 20 minutes before being rinsed. | 