Recently Asked Questions about Parvo with Bloomington Animal Hospital

Parvo can be excruciating for dogs and their owners, creating so much suffering. At Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, we know how important keeping your pet happy and healthy is to you. We’ve answered some of the top parvo questions below to help you fight this sickness as best as possible.

What exactly is parvo?

Parvo or canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that impacts the intestines. In some cases, it can even attack the heart.

How do I know my dog has it?

Parvo typically makes its presence known when a dog loses its appetite and begins to vomit. They’ll also be dehydrated, lethargic, and act depressed. You'll notice bloody diarrhea and terrible breath.

How does a dog get parvo?

The parvovirus comes from contact with the vomit or feces of an infected dog. However, your dog doesn’t have to contact it directly, as the virus can live outside the animal for months. Therefore, it is not unusual for a dog to contract it from walking through a park where an infected dog has had a bowel movement, or even from shoes, food bowls, floors, or anything else that might have come in contact with the virus.

At what age does a dog get parvo?

This virus has no set age specifications, so all dogs can contract it. However, it's likely in puppies under one year of age and dogs that haven’t been spayed or neutered.

Is it treatable?

Parvo can be deadly, but when caught early enough, treatment options exist. Typically, this includes staying at an animal hospital while being given medication and fluids.

Can it be prevented?

As parvo is so dangerous and easily transmitted, prevention is critical. Puppies are vaccinated every few weeks for their first four months of life. Even if you haven’t been vaccinated, you can still get yearly immunizations to protect your adult dogs. Your veterinarian can recommend the best schedule for your dog.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Bloomington Animal Hospital

Whether your four-legged friend has already contracted parvo or to prevent it, our Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, can help. Call us at (309) 663-1414 to schedule an appointment today.