PAPS hopes that everyone had a good start to New Year. It would be nice to think that 2023 will be kinder to dogs in Spain, but sadly we all know that there will still be too many being abused and hurt and thousands more without loving homes – so don’t forget: Adopt, Don’t Shop!
One of the major responsibilities of dog-ownership is disease control and one of the diseases definitely to avoid is Parvo, a dangerous and highly contagious virus which causes severe gastrointestinal illnesses in dogs, often with a fatal outcome. The symptoms of Parvo are: severe diarrhoea (generally containing blood), severe vomiting, lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, dehydration and weakness, although all of these signs may not show in every dog.
While all dogs can be affected, Parvo Virus is most common in dogs under a year old. Puppies and young dogs between 6 weeks and 5 months are the most vulnerable and are the most difficult to treat, meaning that they are the most at risk of death, but unvaccinated or incomplete-vaccinated dogs are also very vulnerable.
This killer virus is incredibly resilient, staying in the environment or on surfaces for long periods of time and it can withstand most disinfectants, conditions and temperatures. Transmission most commonly occurs through direct contact with an infected dog, or by direct contact through the nose or mouth from infected saliva, faeces or vomit. Humans can also carry the virus on their skin, clothing or shoes if they have come in contact with an infected animal, stepped in faeces in the street etc.
The high level of contagiousness and ease of spread is what makes Parvo such an alarming virus – which is why it’s so important for owners to try to prevent infection of their puppies or dogs. Parvo can be treated by a vet if it’s caught early enough. Treatment will generally involve hospitalisation, IV drips, antibiotics, anti-vomiting medication and pain management. As Parvo also attacks the white blood cells, the animal’s immunity and ability to fight infections will be compromised which is why it’s vital that medical attention is given immediately.
The best effective treatment for dogs against Parvo is a series of vaccinations for puppies, to be continued throughout life with boosters. Puppies will not have full immunity until 2 weeks after the final puppy vaccination. Unvaccinated, or incomplete-vaccinated pups, should not be taken to unsafe environments which may have been visited by unvaccinated dogs including public footpaths, parks, etc.
Please ensure your dog is well-protected from Parvo through full vaccination.
It may be a New Year, but sadly PAPS still have too many lovely dogs patiently waiting for a new home. Danella wants to put her best paw forward and show everyone what an absolute sweetheart she is. She’s possibly a Vizla or Doberman X (big debate about this!!), dob 14/2/19, 60cms tall. She is very gentle, good-natured and obedient and is good with other dogs. She will make a really wonderful companion for some lucky home.
Email animalesperrosdelsol@hotmail.com for further information.
Can you sponsor a dog monthly, foster, volunteer or make a donation? This would be much appreciated.
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