The parvovirosisThe parvovirus is a serious viral infection. |
The parvoviruses that cause the disease are excreted by the thousands in the feces of affected dogs. Virus-containing feces are therefore the main cause of contagion and spread of the disease.
In addition, viruses are particularly long-lived and resistant.
Only appropriate hygiene measures and scrupulous disinfection can prevent their spread.
Viruses are transmitted by direct contact with the excrement of a sick dog, by sniffing, playing or fighting.
You too, as the animal's owner, can indirectly contaminate your dog, if, for example, you have excrement stuck to your shoes, or if you have petted or touched other dogs.
You're carrying the virus without realizing it.
Parvovirus first manifests itself as fever and fatigue, quickly followed by vomiting, often accompanied by severe, bloody diarrhoea.
If intensive treatment is not promptly initiated, the outcome of the disease is usually fatal, especially in young dogs.
As there is no medication against the virus itself, only the symptoms of the disease can be combated.