Parvo starts when a dog comes into contact with the canine parvovirus, primarily through direct or indirect exposure to infected dogs or their feces.
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs, particularly puppies. The virus is extremely resilient and can survive in the environment for extended periods. Understanding how it spreads is crucial for prevention and control.
The primary ways a dog becomes infected with parvovirus, as stated in the reference, are through:
- Direct contact with infected dogs: This is the most straightforward method of transmission. Healthy dogs can contract the virus simply by interacting with a dog that is shedding the virus.
- Contact with feces (stool) from infected dogs: The virus is shed in high concentrations in the feces of infected dogs. If a dog sniffs, licks, or steps in contaminated feces and then licks its paws, it can easily become infected.
- Contact with virus-contaminated surfaces: The parvovirus is very durable and can survive on various surfaces, becoming a source of infection for unprotected dogs.
Contaminated Surfaces and Indirect Transmission
Indirect transmission through contaminated surfaces is a significant factor in parvo outbreaks. The reference specifically mentions several examples of these surfaces:
- Kennels
- Food and water bowls
- Collars and leashes
- The hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs
This means that even if a dog doesn't come into direct contact with an infected animal or its feces, it can still pick up the virus from a contaminated environment. People who have been around infected dogs can unknowingly carry the virus on their clothes or hands and transmit it to other dogs. This highlights the importance of strict hygiene and disinfection protocols in areas where dogs congregate or where a parvo case has been confirmed.
Understanding these transmission routes underscores why vaccination is so important for protecting dogs from this severe disease. Proper cleaning and disinfection of potentially contaminated areas are also vital steps in preventing the spread of parvo.
