Meet Dr Simone Pietersen from Sandton Veterinary Clinic, here to answer questions about canine parvovirus.
Understanding Canine Parvovirus
What is canine parvovirus (parvo)?
“Canine parvovirus is a viral infection that mainly affects young, unvaccinated dogs. It is an extremely contagious disease that spreads easily between dogs that are not protected by vaccinations. “
Why is parvo such a serious illness for dogs?
“What makes it such a serious disease is that it has a high mortality rate if not treated early, and even with treatment, it can still be fatal.”
What are the main symptoms of parvovirus that pet parents should watch for?
“The main symptoms are vomiting, diarrhoea, and inappetence. So, pet parents should notice it easily.”
How is parvo transmitted?
“Parvo is transmitted through the vomit and diarrhoea of infected dogs. The virus is extremely resistant to the environment and can survive and infect other dogs even years later. “
Which dogs are most at risk for contracting parvo?
“Young dogs under 2 years of age are most at risk because the virus replicates in fast-dividing cells. Unvaccinated animals have a much higher risk of contracting the virus than vaccinated animals.”
What steps can pet parents take to prevent their dogs from contracting parvovirus?
“Vaccination is the key factor. It is also important to keep young puppies who have not been fully vaccinated away from high-risk areas such as parks. Be sure not to introduce a new puppy into an area that has previously been contaminated by a parvo-positive dog unless it is fully vaccinated.”
If a pet parent suspects their dog has parvo, what should they do immediately?
“Please take your dog to a vet. There is a lot of advice online on how to treat these animals at home. There is no miracle cure. They need intravenous fluids, intravenous anti-nausea medications, and antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. Only mild cases can be treated as outpatients."
Can parvovirus be treated?
“The virus itself can’t be killed by medication. Only the immune system can fight the virus. And because the virus also suppresses the immune system, it can often be a losing battle.”
What does the recovery process look like?
“What we do in the hospital is provide fluid to prevent dehydration (with an IV drip) and help prevent nausea with antiemetics, keeping the animal going while the immune system fights the battle. It can be a long hospital stay, sometimes up to two weeks.”
Any final advice for dog owners on protecting their pets from this dangerous virus?
“Vaccination, vaccination, vaccination.”
More About Our Vet of The Month
Tell us a bit about yourself and your work as a vet.
“I am a small animal vet who qualified in 2010 at Onderstepoort. I was born and raised in the Free State and never thought I would end up in Johannesburg. I now love Johannesburg, the people, and their pets. I love that I see people who want the absolute best for their pets and are willing to go the extra mile for them.”
What inspired you to work with animals, and what keeps you passionate about your work?
“I have always loved animals, as all vets do, but it was actually horse riding that made me want to study to be a vet. Later, at Onderstepoort, I realised that I really didn't want to be an equine vet at all! I love the smallies and feel I make a difference in the owner’s lives as much as in the lives of their pets.”
Do you have any pets? Share a little about your furry family members!
“I have three dogs, all little mutts. One is called Vlooi, and he has three legs. The others are Benji and Lindsey. Then there are two cats called Milly and Snowy, one rabbit, and five silkie chickens. It can be a handful to manage sometimes, but luckily, I have help.”
Pet Insurance and Canine Parvovirus
dotsure.co.za pet insurance offers a range of plans to help cover the costs of vet bills. Vaccinations, including canine parvovirus vaccinations, are covered up to a specified limit under the Wellness cover section of the Ultimate plan. Wellness Benefits or Wellness Benefits Plus can be added to Vital, Elite and Deluxe plans at an additional premium.
Get a quote today and ensure your pet is protected!
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