Canine parvovirus, which is usually called parvo, is a disease that normally affects puppies and sometimes older dogs. Parvo kills cells in the puppy's digestive tract, causing severe gastrointestinal problems that become the real concern in parvo: malnutrition and dehydration. There is no cure for parvovirus; it is treated by providing fluids through an IV. There is a vaccination for puppies to prevent contraction of the disease.
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Fever
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One of the first symptoms puppies develop is a high fever.
Lethargy and Depression
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Affected puppies will be less active than normal and will spend more time laying down or sleeping. This is also one of the early symptoms.
Loss of Appetite
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Another one of the first symptoms a puppy will exhibit is loss of appetite. Puppies normally eat a lot, so avoiding food is very suspicious.
Diarrhea and Vomiting
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The symptoms will develop into bloody diarrhea that has a very foul odor and clear, foamy vomiting.
Time Frame
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Puppies will start showing symptoms within seven to 10 days of contracting parvo. This is also the time they will test positive for the disease.
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