We have had a case of Parvovirus recently so it is a good idea to review what Parvovirus is and how it can affect dogs.
Rambo is a year old Rottweiler who was diagnosed in early October with Parvovirus.
Parvovirus (or Parvo) is a highly contagious virus that can live and survive in the environment for a long time. Most dogs will come into contact with Parvo at some point in their lives so it is important to protect your dog as much as possible by ensuring vaccines are up to date.
Symptoms can include
*lethargy
* diarrhoea which may be watery and particularly foul smelling and/or bloody
* vomiting
*signs of tummy pain
* high or low temperature
* sometimes pale colour gums
Symptoms can take up to a week to appear. The virus attacks the immune system so young puppies and unvaccinated dogs are particularly at risk. Also, certain black and tan breeds are also more at risk.
Parvovirus is potentially, and often, fatal. There is no cure and treatment involves supportive measures such as fluid therapy, antibiotics and anti-sickness treatment and keeping the patient as comfortable as possible. Sometimes a feeding tube is also required. It is then very much a waiting game to see how the body copes and recovers. Patients require isolation and intensive therapy and this can be expensive with no guarantee of success.
Fortunately, Rambo has recovered. He had a lot going for him because he was vaccinated, older and generally well so he was very lucky. But even so, it was a long road and thanks to his dedicated parents who were able to assist in his recovery at home he continues to make good progress.
This a picture of Rambo enjoying a tiny piece of ham which was the first thing he'd eaten in weeks !
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