PARVOVIRAL ENTERITIS
Certain diseases can be prevented by annual vaccinations. Parvoviral Enteritis is acute gastroenteritis caused by the parvovirus first noted in the USA in the Summer of 1978. This virus is contagious and can live in the soil for up to two years. Warm climates with high humidity and plentiful rainfall are ideal conditions for this virus' survival.
The parvovirus is ingested and goes to work rapidly with symptoms appearing within 24 to 36 hours. Puppies under three months of age, especially those of smaller breeds, will die within 24 hours after the symptoms appear.
Puppies aged six to twelve months, can survive this virus if treatment by a veterinarian is immediate. Dogs of all ages are susceptible to the parvovirus.
A dog infected with this virus will vomit and/or have diarrhea, both having a putrid distinct odour. The dog will sit or lay motionless having a dazed look to the eyes. Rapid dehydration occurs being the probable cause of death, rather than the virus itself.
Soiled areas should be thoroughly cleaned and soaked with bleach indoors or outdoors! The infected dog should be completely isolated before and after treatment. Puppies born into high risk conditions can be vaccinated as early as four weeks with two follow-up boosters, two weeks apart, then boosted again at three months and six months.
CORONAVIRAL GASTROENTERITIS
Coronavirus is highly contagious and is caused by the coronavirus, arriving in the USA sometime in 1978.
Several years prior to 1978, this virus was noted in Germany amongst Military German Shepherds.
Coronavirus is vert similar to the Parvovirus; although not as severe, is still a deadly virus.
Viruses and bacterial infections are contagious. You should vaccinate your pets against these diseases, not only to protect your dog from infection, but to protect yourself and other susceptible animals. Continued vaccination against these diseases can help to decrease or even eradicate them.
Other preventable diseases will be covered in my next post.
