The Parvovirus, a very highly contagious virus, has been showing up too often in our area. This virus can survive in the environment for months and even years. Just sitting there … waiting to infect!
How does it infect? It is carried in the dog and when that dog leaves its feces or stool somewhere, it begins. Another dog, person or anything then comes along and has contact with that feces, stepping in it or on a tire, or some other way. Then your dog may lick his feet or your shoes – it’s a contaminated surface!
Now your dog is infected with this virus. Having your dog vaccinated for this in the first place is a big help in controlling this virus. Generally, Parvovirus will infect puppies averaging 6 to 20 weeks of age, but it can infect dogs of all ages. Breeding dogs should have the vaccination which will boost the antibody levels and help protect the puppies, but they will still need their vaccinations in a timely manner.
It’s cheaper to vaccinate compared to the cost of the care and treatment required and even then it could still be fatal. To help prevent this virus you should vaccinate!
Another helpful prevention tip is to use bleach and water: 1 cup bleach to 1/3 cup water. Use as a solution and leave on the infected surface for 20 minutes before rinsing off. The experts say this is the most effective method.
If you don’t know, call your local veterinarian. They will have a record of your dog’s vaccinations. They can also help you with any questions or concerns you may have. All this information has been collected from some of the area veterinarians, animal control officers and the web.
Some things to think about: you’re walking your best friend in the park or anywhere for that matter. It’s a nice day, sun is out (not now, too much snow!). Your dog then does what they do best, sniffs feces and as you go to stop him you step in some more. Was that other dog infected? Makes you wonder. Is your dog vaccinated? You can’t walk around looking at the ground all the time and your dog will be faster than you are at spotting things. Have a good day and be vigilant!
Questions or concerns, contact the Maine Animal Control, P.O. Box 50, New Limerick, ME 04761; phone 538-1347 or e-mail at Debjoe347@yahoo.com.
