Parvovirus is a word that is not to be taken lightly. For most dog owners, this word is the most dreaded thing to come out of the veterinarian's mouth. This virus causes the most common infectious disease among dogs in the United States. Aside from being common, it also is very deadly. Ignoring the symptoms of such will certainly result in death among canines.

Dog owners have to remain vigilant to signs and symptoms that point to the disease. Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that manifests itself through diarrhea and bloody stool. It is caused by the canine parvovirus (CPV-2).

Signs and symptoms of parvovirus differ among dogs infected by such. Unfortunately, some dogs show very few symptoms. Some do not show any at all. Typically, parvovirus causes severe enteritis, or an inflammation of the intestines. This further leads to vomiting, diarrhea - which may be bloody, dark feces, dehydration, and lethargy. This virus will affect any breed, sex and age of dog. The virus manifests itself more severely among younger puppies.

There are a few breeds that are more susceptible to parvovirus than others. Among them are Rottweilers, Labradors, and Doberman Pinschers. Puppies six months and below usually manifest a more serious form of the disease.

After the onset of this disease, the dog could die in as little as two days if not given immediate and proper treatment. The virus typically takes 7 to 14 days to incubate. Active excretion of this virus through feces could begin as early as 3 days.

Parvovirus can survive even on inanimate objects for up to five months. They particularly thrive on animals such as rats and insects. To prevent dogs from being infected, owners must keep kennels and surroundings clean. The virus can be spread through infected items such as clothing, food pans, cages, etc.

To disinfect such, cleaning the above mentioned articles with a 1:32 dilution of bleach or ¨ö cup per gallon is necessary. One may also expose the articles to Ultraviolet rays. Lots of sunlight can help eliminate the presence of these viruses.

It would do well to make sure that everything the dog will come in contact with is clean. Try avoiding having your dog come into contact with infected dogs and articles.

Diagnosis and Treatment Although not all vomiting and bloody diarrhea is caused by parvovirus, it would still pay to take a trip to the veterinarian for a check up. The only way to verify whether a dog has parvovirus or not is clinical and laboratory diagnosis. It would be better to err on the side of safety on this matter. If you think your dog has the parvovirus, a quick trip to the veterinarian won't be in vain.

To treat the disease, a veterinarian will most likely recommend supportive therapy. This will involve replacing the fluids lost due to diarrhea and vomiting. This will probably be an electrolyte solution administered intravenously. In less severe cases, oral solutions will suffice. Antibiotics may be given to control secondary infections. Medicines to control vomiting may also be given.

When the parvovirus symptoms subside, a de-worming agent may be used. Your veterinarian will also probably restrict the food the dog may take.

Fortunately, dogs that have recovered from the virus are immune from re-infection for the next twenty months. There is also a good chance that your dog will be immune for the rest of its life.