Disclaimer: We are not licensed veterinarians and only offer the information and advice on this page based on layman research. It is ALWAYS best to rely on advice from your veterinarian for subjects such as these and we accept no responsibility for the use of the information on this page.. Also, if you are one of the small minority of people that actually don’t believe in vaccinations for your pets, please feel free to leave our site now as you are not even a little eligible to buy one of our puppies.
Canine Parvovirus (CPV – also called Parvo) is a dangerous viral illness in dogs, is highly contagious and can be deadly. It typically affects puppies more commonly than adults because adults should be vaccinated against it. The vaccination must be administered over several weeks and multiple shots to be effective. In the case of Texas TLC Goldens puppies; they will have the first of the several shots required for full vaccination when you pick the puppy up. You will be responsible and required to follow up with your vet to get the rest of the series completed. Note that adult dogs (even vaccinated) can catch the virus if they have a significantly damaged immune system for some other reason.
Parvo is a virus that attacks the lining of the digestive system making it difficult if not impossible to absorb nutrients. According to PetMD it can also attack the heart in more rare cases leading to heart failure.
According to PetMD the typical symptoms of the more common intestinal form of the virus are:
- Severe, bloody diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Anorexia
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Severe weight loss
- redness around the wet areas of the eyes and mouth
- abdominal pain when palpated
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in part says this:
The virus affects dogs’ gastrointestinal tracts and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated feces (stool), environments, or people. The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs. It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and drying, and can survive in the environment for long periods of time. Even trace amounts of feces from an infected dog may harbor the virus and infect other dogs that come into the infected environment. The virus is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes, or other objects.
They go on to say “Most deaths from parvovirus occur within 48 to 72 hours following the onset of clinical signs” so it is critical that you act fast and immediately contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital if any signs are present.
In our research, canine Parvovirus only affects dogs. Not humans; not cats; not deer; only dogs. It can however be carried by all other animals on their feet or fur or clothes and even their stool if they eat infected material.
This deadly virus is the primary reason that Texas TLC Goldens will not allow physical visitors before the puppies have had their first shots at around 8 weeks and an appointment is made. Even then we will restrict your access to certain areas of the home and may ask that you remove your shoes before coming inside. Some breeders have reported losing entire litters because one customer innocently came to pick them up with virus on their shoes or clothes. We take this virus VERY seriously and so should you.
The virus is very resistant to many forms of household cleaners. The most effective cleanup technique we are finding is to mix a solution of 8oz (one cup) of common household bleach to a gallon of water and thoroughly wash the area with the solution. While we have not tried it yet we’ve read that a mixture of this strength should not kill your grass so it should be fine to use it there as well if you have any concerns at all about it. You may want to test on a small patch of grass first but if you need it; you need it.
If you suspect your yard could be infected and don’t have the ability to disinfect it then keep your puppy inside until fully vaccinated. This is also why we’ve said in other content to avoid dog parks completely until after the puppy is fully vaccinated.
Hopefully We’ve scared you into paying attention. That said, few puppies get this infection in recent years because of widespread vaccinations and proper attention from new parents and breeders. You will be required to take your puppy to the vet shortly after taking it home so be sure to have a meaningful conversation with your vet at that time.
Thanks for your care and attention
Bryan and Terri