While certain French regions are facing a resurgence of the parvovirus epidemic in dogs, the 30 Million Friends Foundation is warning owners and encouraging them to have their animals vaccinated.
While there is a vaccine against the deadly parvovirus, an epidemic is currently occurring in Avignon, in the Vaucluse. For Dr. Laetitia Barlerin, a veterinarian, a resurgence of this type of epidemic is likely to be a regular occurrence: ” Currently, there is distrust of vaccinations for children, but this distrust also exists for animals. People are not aware of the importance of vaccination and the consequences of their decision. »
A deadly disease
Parvovirus affects dogs that are (not or inadequately) vaccinated and the consequences are extremely serious. You should know that in puppies the disease is fatal in 90% of cases if not treated. If it is taken in time, we can reduce this rate to 50%… In adults it is a little less common and mainly affects the weakest or elderly, whose immune systems are no longer as efficient. “, explains the practitioner. The parvovirus particularly affects places where animals are concentrated: animal shelters, farms, etc.
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How is the virus transmitted?
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that is transmitted via the fecal-oral route. This means that a dog that sniffs another dog’s feces or licks another dog can easily catch it. In addition, it is a resistant virus that can persist in the environment for a very long time. ” In fact, you only have to walk your dog to get it, so the risk is very high! »warns the vet. An owner can also bring the virus home with infected soles. Good to know: The virus is not transmissible to humans or cats.
Parvovirus: The disease is fatal in puppies in 90% of cases if left untreated. © Eva – Fotolia.com
What symptoms?
- Very watery diarrhea that quickly becomes hemorrhagic;
- Vomit;
- Slaughter of the animal;
- Loss of appetite and dehydration;
- Possible fever.
” It has an immediate impact on the animal’s general condition, as it loses a lot of water through diarrhea. If your pet shows these signs, consult a veterinarian immediately, as dehydration can be fatal. », encourages L. Barlerin.
Which treatments?
Please note that if blood or stool tests show the virus, your pet will be hospitalized immediately. ” The dog is first rehydrated through infusions. Since bacterial superinfection occurs quickly, antibiotic coverage is prescribed. », describes the vet.
Unfortunately, a dog cured of parvovirus has lifelong aftereffects.” These dogs have digestive problems such as food intolerances, intestinal fragility, etc. »warns Dr. Barlerin.
The importance of vaccination
” Vaccinating your dog means protecting your pet and those of others », advises the vet. As the virus is very contagious, unvaccinated or poorly protected animals can transmit the disease. In the event of an epidemic, the virus can also mutate: vaccination therefore no longer protects against this variant. This is why vaccinating your dog is essential, especially since it is a simple measure! Puppies can be vaccinated from 6 weeks of age. For the first vaccination, 2 injections one month apart are sufficient. Then, depending on the region, a reminder is given every year or every 2 years. The parvovirus vaccine is included in the “CHP” vaccine, which also protects against distemper, rubarth hepatitis and leptospirosis.