Canine parvovirus, also known as parvo, is a type of virus that affects domestic and wild dogs, coyotes, foxes, and wolves. This virus is highly contagious, and it is one of the most dreaded diseases for those who own puppies.
Parvovirus is spread through the feces of an infected dog or puppy. Vaccination is by far the best prevention method for parvovirus. Parvovirus vaccine begins at 6-8 weeks of age. The puppy is then given at least two more parvovirus vaccination series at 3-4 week intervals, and in some cases a fourth vaccination series is given.
There are three different types of parvovirus which affects dogs, but all three of these strains cause the same types of symptoms to develop. Each of these strains are highly contagious, and in most cases they attack puppies and young dogs.
Parvovirus is a dreadful and highly contagious disease that requires immediate attention. Adult dogs rarely show symptoms of the disease unless their immune system is stressed. Dogs that are less than 6 months of age are the ones who experience the most traumatic effects of the disease. If left untreated, parvovirus generally causes death in younger dogs.