How to Treat Parvo Virus

Parvo virus is very contagious and deadly. The virus takes about eight days to incubate and then quickly takes hold of the animal. Many animals don't survive because the virus quickly weakens.

The easiest way to protect your pet from this horrible virus is through a series of shots. It is best if they are given while the dog is still a puppy. However, if your dog hasn't been vaccinated an important aspect of survival for the animal is early detection. The earlier your dog is diagnosed, the better the chances of survival are. There are a few ways to detect a problem.

Most dogs will not show symptoms until about three to five days after the incubation period, so he will already be very sick. The dog will stop eating and later stop drinking. He or she will begin to vomit. As the stomach is emptied, the dog will begin to dry heave almost constantly and develop a hacking. Eventually you will notice blood in their stool. The dog will quickly lose weight and will be very lethargic. If treatment is not sought in time, they will succumb to dehydration.

Treatment can be very expensive. However, if you are willing to treat them at home you will save a few hundred dollars. Your pet will need subcutaneous IVs every few hours. Your vet can show you how to give them. You should try to get them to drink as much water as possible. You should also try to get them eating. They usually won't touch their kibble, so give them something they will really really like.

Table food, as a rule, isn't healthy for a pet, but it's better than nothing. Chicken or beef broth is good for starters. then try them on something a bit more solid. The virus itself doesn't pose a major threat. It is the dehydration, malnutrition, and secondary infections that are the biggest danger for your pet.