Tag Archives: parvo

Ask a Pets Blogger: How Long Does Parvo Live in the Environment?

A friend of mine recently fostered a dog who was suffering from parvo. With vet treatment, the dog survived and has gone on to a forever home… but my friend is now worried about future fosters. What can she do to protect the next dog that comes to stay with her? Parvo is a tough one to get rid of because it is so hardy — especially outdoors. A few ways in which the parvovirus can be spread: Carried on shoes or clothing. Surviving sub-freezing temperatures to infect dogs after the spring thaw. Freezing does NOT kill the virus — … Continue reading →

Vaccinations For Dogs

Vaccinations protect your pets against diseases that we were once helpless against. Diseases like rabies and distemper are easily prevented, helping ensure your pet has a long and healthy life. Vaccinating your pets also helps protect you and your family — some diseases can be passed from animal to human. The American Animal Hospital Association released canine vaccine guidelines in 2003 and updated them in 2006 to help veterinarians administer appropriate vaccines to dogs. The guidelines were developed by veterinarians, researchers, immunologists, and infectious disease experts. There are two different kinds of vaccine: core vaccines and noncore vaccines. Core vaccines … Continue reading →

What is Parvo?

When you’re searching for the right dog to join the family, you may see something like “parvo negative” or “tested for parvo” along with other information. So what is parvo? Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease in dogs. It often affects puppies more than adult dogs, and the breeds most susceptible to the disease are black and tan dogs like Dobies and Rotties. Parvo attacks the active cells of the stomach and digestive tract; dogs suffering from parvo are unable to absorb liquids or nutrients from food. IMPORTANT NOTE: Parvovirus is only contagious to dogs. Humans and other pets … Continue reading →