Moms and Mutts ~ Colorado Rescue for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs
Parvo & Distemper
Parvo & Distemper Information
Canine parvovirus and Distemper are highly contagious viral diseases
Both are often fatal if undiagnosed or untreated
Parvo virus attacks the intestinal tract and the white blood vessels
Without early treatment, it can damage the heart muscle
Distemper attacks the intestinal tract, the white blood vessels, the respiratory system, a nervous system
Parvovirus and Distemper are extremely contagious!!
They can be transmitted by any person, animal or object that comes in contact with an infected dog’s feces.
The viruses can live in the environment for a very long time.
Often unvaccinated dogs will contract Parvo or Distemper when they are in a public area
Symptoms of Parvo
Lethargy
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Dehydration
Symptoms of Distemper
Diarrhea
Continued fever
Pneumonia (Characterized by labored breathing and coughing)
Depletion of white blood cells
Vomiting
Hardening of the pads of the feet
Unusual tooth enamel
Seizures
Uncoordinated movements or muscle spasms
Paralysis
How to Prevent a Parvo or Distemper Outbreak
Clean! Clean! Clean!
Making sure that poop is cleaned up in a timely manner is very important
Bleach is the only effective way to kill Parvo and Distemper, using a bleach solution to frequently clean toys, bowls, and floors helps to prevent viral illnesses
Keep puppies out of public areas and away from foreign dogs until they have been vaccinated
We will not allow unvaccinated puppies to attend adoption events
We recommend that you make all adopters remove their shoes and wash their hands prior to meeting the puppies
We recommend that you do not allow adopters to bring their dogs to your home for meet and greets
Do not take unvaccinated puppies to a park or other public place for a meet and greet
Do not take unvaccinated puppies out of your home
What to do if you suspect a puppy has Parvo or Distemper?
DO NOT WAIT!!
Most puppies who are diagnosed early will survive the Parvo virus
If a puppy is not seen in time, this can result in lasting internal damage or death
If a puppy is vomiting, has diarrhea, seizures, depression, or is unusually lethargic, you need to first call your foster coordinator
If one of them cannot be reached, call Red Rocks Animal Hospital
Dehydration kills puppies, and it is important for experienced eyes to assess the situation
It may be necessary to hospitalize the puppy
Prevention is key!
Make sure to clean the areas where puppies, play, sleep, and poop thoroughly