Parvovirus is one of the most devastating illnesses that a dog can contract. Parvovirus, commonly shortened to parvo, is highly contagious and can be deadly if not caught and treated quickly. However, parovirus does not have a 100 percent mortality rate. A dog can recover from parvo and live a normal, healthy life with proper care.
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How Parvovirus Works
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Dogs contract parvovirus from contact with infected dogs or feces of infected dogs. The virus travels through the body and into the lymphatic and digestive systems, where it attacks the rapidly dividing cells. The virus kills white blood cells and lining of the intestine is shed and prevents the dog from absorbing any nutrients. This prevents the dog from fighting secondary infections caused by the virus and keeps his body from producing any new blood cells until the virus dies.
Symptoms
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Parvovirus symptoms normally begin with lethargy and refusal to eat. Dogs with parvo will even refuse favorite treats such as cheese and hot dogs. A high fever is also present as secondary infections begin to spread through the dog’s body. The dog will throw up frequently and have loose, bloody stool as the cells of the intestines are shed. Diarrhea associated with parvovirus is often extremely foul-smelling and yellow in color.
Treatments
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The best treatment is to vaccinate your dog as soon as you get him as there is no cure for the parvovirus. The virus must be allowed to run its full course in the body which can take upwards of two weeks if treatment was started after the dog was noticeably ill. Intravenous fluids are administered for the first few days, until the dog can drink water without vomiting. Antibiotics are given to help fight off secondary infections, and blood transfusions may be necessary if the dog suffers severe bloody diarrhea.
Costs
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Treating parvovirus is an extremely costly procedure. The most expensive part of treating an infected dog is the continuous administration of IV fluids, which have to be given around the clock. The dog must stay at the vet’s office until he is well enough to go home, with overnight stays and constant care costing extra. It can cost anywhere between $500 and $2,500 for a routine course of parvovirus care, with additional items such as blood transfusions adding upwards of $200 to the price, as of 2010.
Aftercare
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Every surface the dog was exposed to must be thoroughly cleaned to kill the parvovirus. The virus is extremely resistant to disinfectants and can live in the soil for as long as five years. A solution of 4 oz. bleach to 1 gallon of water should be used to wipe down every surface, as well as sprayed over the yard to kill the virus. Once the dog is home, she should be allowed to rest quietly and not be disturbed as she recovers. A bland diet of boiled hamburger and rice can be fed for one week to allow her digestive system to recuperate before transitioning her back to normal kibble.
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