Parvo

There are countless measures you can take to keep your dog healthy, one of which is to make sure your pet is vaccinated for parvo. Parvovirus is very contagious and has a high mortality rate if not treated. At West Boca Veterinary Center in Boca Raton, we know how important your four-legged friend is to you. We're here to help make sure they stay safe and protected from dangerous diseases.

Symptoms of Parvo

The main symptoms of parvo are lethargy and weight loss along with bloody diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and depression. Newborn puppies have natural antibodies, but these fade by the time your puppy is a few weeks old. Puppies between six weeks and six months are most at risk, as are dogs that are unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated.

How Does Parvo Spread?

Parvo spreads through contact with other dogs who are carrying the virus. It can also spread through feces. Dogs become contagious within four to five days of becoming infected, and often before they show outward signs of infection. That means your pet could need care and be spreading the virus to others before you even realize they are ill. Fortunately, parvo is completely avoidable by having your puppy vaccinated for the virus. A vaccinated pet cannot contract the virus or spread it to other pets.

Pet Care in Boca Raton

At West Boca Veterinary Center, we have years of experience providing pet owners in Boca Raton with reliable veterinary care. Parvo is a dangerous disease, and we recommend all pet owners have their pets immunized against it. For more information on the effects of parvo, our other pet care services, or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, call us at (561) 451-8838.