Lecture: Vaccines for Dogs

Lecture Notes

Canine parvovirus is a viral disease that attacks primarily the intestinal tract, but also other rapidly dividing cells such as those found in the bone marrow, heart muscle, and immune system. Since the intestinal tract is involved, common signs of illness include vomiting and severe diarrhea…which then leads to dehydration and weight loss. A fever is also common.

Parvovirus is mostly seen in puppies under 6 months of age, and can quickly lead to death if untreated.

It is not fully understood why, but some breeds…including Rottweilers, Doberman Pinscers, and American Staffordshire Terriers…may be more susceptible to parvovirus infections than other breeds.