Canine parvovirus is a highly
contagious
and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the gastrointestinal
tract of puppies, dogs, and wild canids. It was first identified in
1978 and is seen worldwide. It also can damage the heart muscle in very
young and unborn puppies.
Puppies and dogs usually become infected
when they ingest virus that is passed in the feces (stool) of an
infected dog. Canine parvovirus is resistant to changes in
environmental conditions and can survive for long periods of time.
Trace amounts of feces containing parvovirus may serve as reservoirs of
infection and the virus is readily transmitted from place to place on
the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes, or other
objects.
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