From Kim Haynes, DVM City Veternarian Protecting Your Dog From "Parvo" We are currently seeing many cases of illness and death attributed to parvovirus in dogs. It is normal for us to see a few cases in the spring and early summer. However, right now we are receiving calls daily to pick up sick dogs and dogs that have died from parvo virus. Some of these animals have been diagnosed at veterinary clinics; some have not, but they are showing the "classic" signs. Parvo infection typically affects puppies and young dogs that have not received a full series of vaccinations. However, adult dogs can be susceptible. The typical parvo case begins with the dog not wanting to eat; then it usually stops drinking water, too. During this time, the dog may have vomiting and/or diarrhea. Once the diarrhea begins, it is usually profuse, watery, and may appear bloody. It has a particularly foul odor. Parvo has a very high mortality rate, if untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential if the dog is to recover. Even with treatment, this disease has a high mortality rate. There is a parvo test which is performed on feces or vomitus of sick dogs. There is no test to detect the infection prior to the development of clinical signs. Treatment consists of intravenous fluids and other supportive treatment. This treatment can be expensive due to the intensive care required and the isolation from other animals that is necessary to prevent the spread of the disease.  My advice to local dog owners would be to check your dog's vaccination records and make sure that your dog is current on vaccinations. With adult dogs, this would be within the last year. Puppies need frequent vaccination boosters (follow your veterinarian's recommendations). Also, I would recommend not taking your puppy anywhere that dogs frequent, such as pet stores, groomers, and especially, parks. This virus is spread through the feces and vomitus of dogs that have had the disease. Unfortunately, this virus can persists within the remnants of dog feces for up to one year! The ability to remain infective for so long out in the environment is one reason that this disease is able to affect so many puppies every year. It usually takes about 7-10 days for a susceptible dog to start showing signs of this disease once it is exposed.   Created and maintained by the City of Garland, Management Information Services Department and Public Information Department - Report page problems and suggestions to: - Last Updated: 03/23/01