Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can be life threatening. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells in a dog's body, most severely affecting the intestinal tract. Parvovirus also attacks the white blood cells, and when young animals are infected, the virus can kill them and those that live can have a damage to the heart muscle and have lifelong cardiac problems.
Parvovirus is extremely contagious and can be transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes in contact with an infected dog. Highly resistant, the virus can live in the environment for months, up to several years.
It may survive on inanimate objects such as foodbowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors. It is common for an unvaccinated dog to contract parvovirus from the streets, especially in urban areas where there are many dogs.
Due to this, it is VERY important families do not go to any other breeders, dog kennels, Humane societies, dog parks, puppy classes, Petco, Petsmart (greeting other peoples dogs there) or visit families with dogs or new puppies 1 month prior to getting your puppy and until your puppy is 16 weeks old and has received all of their vaccinations. This also means no trainers coming to your home as they could give your puppy this virus.
When taking your puppy to the vet for vaccinations do not let him walk in (carry him) and do not let him greet other dogs or lick on things.
Protecting our canine family members is our number one priority.
