Canine parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious viral disease of dogs involving the digestive tract.

Generally, the time from exposure to the virus to the development of symptoms is short, three to 14 days. Symptoms usually include loss of appetite, depression and vomiting, which develop into more serious symptoms of diarrhea with blood.

This virus can lead to the death of the animal. CPV is usually diagnosed once vomiting and diarrhea have begun. Once the dog begins to show symptoms, immediate medical treatment is necessary.

The most common victims are young puppies (eight to 12 weeks old) and unvaccinated dogs. But sometimes parvovirus also affects older dogs and vaccinated dogs that have not fully completed their series of parvo vaccinations.

The virus is spread through infected stools and diarrhea of ill and carrier animals. The soil/environment becomes contaminated for several months and during dry periods the virus can become airborne through dust.

To protect your dog, take these steps:

• Ensure your dog is fully vaccinated. Routinely, three sets of "puppy shots" are given at three-or four-week intervals starting once a puppy is six to eight weeks old.
• Avoid areas where dogs congregate (parks, pet stores and other areas where owners take their dogs to walk/play) until your pet is fully vaccinated. Apparently healthy, fully vaccinated animals with no symptoms can be short-term carriers and spread the disease to young or susceptible dogs.
• Seek and follow the advice of veterinary professionals as to the health and well-being of your pet. Establish a relationship with a veterinary clinic prior to your animal getting sick. Regular health exams and vaccinations will help to ensure a long and happy relationship with your best friend.
• Finally, know that no vaccination is a guarantee. At present, our best protection for viral infections is a pre-exposure vaccination. A very small percentage of pets will develop symptoms (although usually much more mild) even with appropriate vaccinations.