There are reports of recent canine parvovirus outbreaks in
certain areas of the United States. This news has caused a great
deal of concern among dog owners and veterinarians, mainly because
of persistent rumors that a new strain of the virus is about to
spread across the country.
There are reports of recent canine parvovirus outbreaks in certain areas of the United States. This news has caused a great deal of concern among dog owners and veterinarians, mainly because of persistent rumors that a new strain of the virus is about to spread across the country.
Since parvo first appeared in 1979, several new strains have emerged, each with a slightly different composition. New strains of any virus can be more aggressive than their predecessor. Because of this, veterinarians are often asked if these new strains might cause a canine pandemic crisis.
Here’s the good news. Virologists are telling us that these new outbreaks (in New York, Arizona and several other areas) do not indicate a national trend. Furthermore, all the strains that have been reported thus far, have been effectively prevented in dogs that were properly innoculated. Vaccinated dogs have not fallen ill to parvovirus and a new vaccine just isn’t necessary at this time.
In fact, experts feel that this recent surge of parvo illness is most likely a result of many people not vaccinating their puppies and adult dogs. They partially blame the poor economy, which has severely affected people’s disposable income spending. More and more dog owners forego visits to the vet because their budget won’t allow it.
What does all of this mean? Simply this: Keep your pooch up-to-date on his vaccines. Puppies need their first vaccine when they’re 2 months old. Adults only need to be vaccinated every three years. It’s inexpensive insurance for your furry friend and will keep him out of the vet’s office for a very dangerous, and expensive illness.
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Once again it’s time to remind everyone of how dangerous Christmas trees and plants can be for pets. Some pet owners fail to realize that mistletoe, poinsettias and even Christmas tree needles are unhealthy if eaten. They can cause severe gastroenteritis (with vomiting and diarrhea) and even just a few bites are potentially dangerous. So be sure you keep your pet away from the holiday greenery and you’ll avoid a potentially expensive veterinary visit.
In addition, remember that the water in the tree stand can also make your dog or cat very ill. Some pets really like to drink from the stand. One year our kitty-cat, Rumpy, drank just a small amount of this water. His upset stomach kept both him and me awake most of that night. Now every year, we wrap a sheet tightly around the base of the tree to keep the cats and dogs away. I’m not sure what attracts them to this water, but I do know this: they’ll drink it if we don’t stop them.
Wrapping paper and ribbon can also end up in a pet’s stomach. Every year there are a few pet owners that find themselves in the emergency vet clinic with their cat or dog. Just remember to be careful. Remove any temptation from the floor before your furry friend gets into trouble. Clean up those wrappings right after you open your gifts.
And finally, keep the people food, especially chocolates and candy, away from your pet. They can be deadly! Have plenty of pet treats handy so that your favorite animal companion can snack safely with you.
SPECIAL NOTE
How’d you like to get your pet’s picture taken with Santa Claus? You can on Sunday at the VCA San Martin Animal Hospital in San Martin. That’s right, Santa makes a special stop there between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and will pose with you and your pooch or pussy-cat. Come on by and get that special Christmas photo.
And while you’re there, see if you can guess who’s behind the beard!
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