Posted by Holistic Pet Info on 11/1/2019 to General Topics
Parvovirus, or Parvo, is an aggressive viral disease that affects dogs and can be fatal. Parvo attacks the digestive tract and can result in bloody diarrhea, shock and high fever. Some dogs contract the virus but never show any symptoms.

Certain dog breeds seem to be more susceptible to the disease than others. Rottweillers, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers and Pit Bulls have a higher rate of contracting the virus, however, all breeds are susceptible to the virus.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES

Your dog can contract the virus through oral contact with another dog's feces or even a yard that recently held another infected dog. Puppies are at the highest risk of contracting the virus as their internal organs and immune systems are still developing.

Following ingestion of the virus, dogs can quickly begin exhibiting symptoms. If not caught in time, your dog may face a sudden heart attack and even death.
 

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS

Dogs that develop Parvo can begin to show symptoms in as little as three days. If your dog is fine one day and the next day is lethargic and sleeps a lot, immediately take him to the vet. Other symptoms include:

  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Lethargic, no energy
  • Excessive vomiting

    • WHAT IS THE CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

    There is no known cure for Parvo and treatment is focused on supportive care, i.e. maintaining your dog's fluid levels, body temperature and balancing electrolyte levels.

    Life-long vaccinations against the parvovirus is one approach to protect your dog, but the evidence is mounting that repeated vaccinations can have adverse effects on the immune system's ability to function. This is where natural remedies can help.

    HOW CAN NATURAL REMEDIES HELP

    More veterinarians and pet caretakers are turning to herbal and homeopathic remedies for the treatment and prevention of canine parvovirus.

    Herbs such as ginger and agrimony help to provide relief from the inflammation and digestive disorders brought on by parvo and homeopathic nosodes have been used effectively as a vaccine against parvo, without the negative effects on the immune system.