Vet’s Voice with Dr Tafara Mapuvire
THERE have been reports of an outbreak of canine parvovirus (CPV) infection in dogs in the Port Alfred area.
Canine parvovirus infection is a worldwide, highly contagious disease. The virus is very resilient and can survive in the environment for extended periods.
Dogs contract parvovirus infection when they ingest the virus in contaminated food or water.Any unvaccinated dog is at risk for acquiring CPV, but illness is more prevalent in puppies between six weeks and six months of age, and in certain breeds such as Rottweiler, Doberman pinscher, American pit bull terrier, German shepherd, and Labrador retriever.
In rare cases, vaccinated dogs can contract parvovirus infection. Clinical signs include lack of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea (typically bloody), dehydration, elevated heart rate, pale gums, and cold extremities. Abdominal pain is frequently elicited on touching or palpation of the abdomen.
[pullquote]The best way to prevent canine parvovirus infection is by vaccination of puppies[/pullquote]
Canine parvovirus infection is a very difficult condition to treat, and has a high mortality rate even with the most aggressive treatment protocols. The virus also affects heart muscle in very young puppies, leading to cardiac arrest and death. Treatment for canine parvovirus infection often involves hospitalisation and can be very costly.
The best way to prevent canine parvovirus infection is by vaccination of puppies. Veterinarians use different vaccination protocols depending on geographical location and the prevalence of the disease. However, these protocols are very similar. Typically, puppies get their first vaccinations at six weeks of age, then boosters at 9 and 12 weeks of age, and annually thereafter. Puppies that have not yet received a full set of puppy vaccination should not be allowed in public areas, or in places where they can be exposed to strange, potentially infected dogs.
Disinfection of the environment (dog houses, floors, etc) with bleach is recommended if one or more dogs within a household contract canine parvovirus infection. The rest of the dogs should be vaccinated immediately. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect parvovirus infection in your dog.
