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

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