What you should know about parvovirus in your Jack Russell dogs? Canine parvovirus or commonly called CPV is a highly infectious disease affecting our four-legged friends. Every mammal has its own specific parvovirus. Canine parvovirus affects dogs and can not affect cats or other animals.
In the late 1970s, Canine Parvovirus was discovered but was only recognized in 1978. Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers and Pit bull terriers are at higher risk but that doesn’t exempt Jack Russell dogs from developing this disease.
Canine Parvovirus is spread through physical contact among dogs. The feces carry the virus, and once ingested, the virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract of that innocent dog. CPV can also damage the heart muscle of young and even unborn pups.
Symptoms of this disease include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever and diarrhea usually visible within three to ten days. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea leads to dehydration so it is important that these two should be treated as soon as possible. Dogs with CPV are also at risk of intussusception. It is a condition wherein part of the intestine has prolapsed to another section of the intestine.
Canine Parvovirus should be treated immediately upon discovery. Worsen case of this disease may need extensive hospitalization especially when dehydration sets in. The presence of CPV can be diagnosed either through hemagglutination or electron microscopy. Your vet will then prescribe medication based on the result of clinical appearances and laboratory tests.
Veterinarians can not prescribe what drug can exactly kill the virus in infected dogs because until now, there is still no known drug for this disease. The treatment usually starts in treating dehydration. Electrolytes and fluid losses should be replaced immediately. Vomiting and diarrhea should be controlled.
Young pups are immune to diseases because of their mom’s milk. This immunity wears off in due time and if that happens, CPV can get in. Without vaccination they are just exposing more of themselves to this infectious disease.
Same with humans, hygiene and proper cleaning is very important. Kennels and areas where infected dogs are kept should be properly cleaned and disinfected. It is also a good idea if infected dogs are separated from other dogs.
Just always remember to be cautious when it comes to your dog’s health. Check the vaccinations, provide the right foods, maintain regular grooming and cleaning and be extra cautious when taking your Jack Russell dogs outside such as parks, obedience classes or dog shows.
Richard Cussons is a writer and a dog expert. He has written articles about different breeds of dogs. Wish to learn more about Jack Russell Terrier training? Visit this site dedicated to Jack Russell dogs.
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February 22nd, 2010 - 10:34 am
Do you suggest that I keep my dogs away from contact with other dogs? They are pretty much away from other dogs all the time anyway, but I wouldn’t want to expose them to any diseases such as CPV. Is it present in every country in the world or is it something just in the US. We live in the UK and I have a wonderful Jack Russell and my mother has a wonderful guide dog too.
February 23rd, 2010 - 1:47 pm
Hello David. I wouldn’t go to that extreme. Dogs need to socialize with other dogs. As long as your dog has its vaccinations up to date and has a good hygiene routine the risk of contracting CPV is significantly reduced. Very young puppies are somewhat immune to CPV due to the natural germ fighting properties in their mother’s milk but they should be vaccinated between 14 and 16 weeks for the best protection.
Canine parvovirus is found in every country in the world. I do not have any information on where it is more prevalent but would assume it is rarer in areas that require you to pick up after your dog.
Thank you for your comment,
David