Canine Parvovirus In Jack Russell Dogs
Richard Cussons
Have you heard of CPV in Jack Russell dogs? CPV stands for Canine Parvovirus, a highly infectious disease affecting dogs. Canine parvovirus only affects dogs since every mammal has its own specific parvovirus. So there is no way that a cat may develop canine parvovirus.
Though emerged in the late 1970s, Canine Parvovirus was only first recognized in 1978. Jack Russell dogs can be affected with this disease but other breeds more prone to this are Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers and Pit bull terriers.
This disease is spread through physical contact of dogs. The virus of this disease is passed on through feces and attacks your dog's gastrointestinal tract when ingested. This doesn't only affect the gastrointestinal tract but also damages the heart muscle of young and even unborn pup.
Symptoms of this disease include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever and diarrhea usually visible within three to ten days. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea leads to dehydration so it is important that these two should be treated as soon as possible. Dogs with CPV are also at risk of intussusception. It is a condition wherein part of the intestine has prolapsed to another section of the intestine.
Canine Parvovirus should be treated immediately upon discovery. Worsen case of this disease may need extensive hospitalization especially when dehydration sets in. The presence of CPV can be diagnosed either through hemagglutination or electron microscopy. Your vet will then prescribe medication based on the result of clinical appearances and laboratory tests.
Veterinarians can not prescribe what drug can exactly kill the virus in infected dogs because until now, there is still no known drug for this disease. The treatment usually starts in treating dehydration. Electrolytes and fluid losses should be replaced immediately. Vomiting and diarrhea should be controlled.
The most important thing every dog owner should secure is the animal's vaccination against the disease. Immunity provided by their mother's milk wears off when they are old enough. So make sure that your dog is vaccinated at the right age because this disease usually attacks puppies even at a very young age.
Hygiene and proper cleaning are also ideal tools to combat canine parvovirus. Kennels and areas where infected dogs are kept should be properly cleaned and disinfected. It is also best if infected dogs are separated from other dogs to prevent further spread of the disease.
Just always remember to be cautious when it comes to your dog's health. Check the vaccinations, provide the right foods, maintain regular grooming and cleaning and be extra cautious when taking your Jack Russell dogs outside such as parks, obedience classes or dog shows.
Richard Cussons is a writer and a dog expert. He has written articles about different breeds of dogs. Want to
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