Posted by Jeanne on November 11, 2009
Parvovirus (commonly called Parvo) is a viral disease that affects dogs. It is far more common in puppies than adult dogs and can have serious ramifications for the infected animal, including death. Parvo grows best in the rapidly dividing cells of the dog’s intestines. As the virus attacks and kills these cells it causes massive diarrhea and halts or slows the creation of white blood cells. In young puppies it can often directly infect the heart, leading to death.
The symptoms of Parvo start with fever, depression, and lethargy. The dog will usually experience a loss of appetite as well and then eventually show more sever signs like vomiting and diarrhea which is often bloody. Once the virus reaches this stage dehydration and death usually follow.
Parvo is carried and transmitted by dogs. The vomit and feces of an infected animal will also carry the virus which is rather resilient and can survive outside the dog’s body in the surrounding environment for as long as nine months. Sometimes an adult dog can be infected by the virus and show no symptoms but act as a carrier transmitting the virus to the other animals it comes into contact with.
There is no cure for Parvo. Dogs that are infected will die of dehydration without treatment. That treatment primarily consists of providing fluids, giving repeated blood transfusions, and preventing dehydration. The mortality rate in dogs affected by Parvo is about 20% if the dog receives treatment in time. Without treatment, about 80% of those infected will die from it. It is a very serious disease.
Parvo tends to affect some dog breeds more than others. Dobermans, Rottweilers, and other black and tan dogs have a greater chance of contracting the virus. The reason for this is unknown but the fact that these dogs are at higher risk does not mean that owners of other types of dogs can rest easily. Dogs of any breed can become infected.
While there is no cure for Parvo, puppies can (and should) be vaccinated against it at an early age. Most vets recommend puppies be immunized starting at six weeks of age with vaccinations continuing until twenty weeks of age. Proper immunization is the best way to prevent a dog from contracting Parvo.
Posted by Jeanne on October 27, 2009
Many people would love to own a pet dog, but are wary of the potential mess that shed dog hair can cause in their homes. These people want a dog that doesn’t shed to be their companion. Unfortunately there is no such thing as a dog that doesn’t shed at all. All dogs will shed and replace at least some of their hair, just like people do. There are some breeds that shed far less than others, however, and selecting one of these breeds can keep the shedding mess to a minimum.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale terrier is a large terrier with a rough coat that sheds very little. These dogs can be good with children, but such socialization needs to start early in the dog’s life. They may play too roughly for small children. These are loyal and trainable dogs, but are also very naturally curious and not easily coaxed away from something that catches their interest. The Airedale usually grows to about 22-24 inches in height and a weight of 50-65 pounds.
Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is reminiscent of the Poodle, especially in the face. It has a short, curly coat and does not shed much but does require above average grooming. It is actually a cross between the American Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle, hence its appearance and name (Cocker + Poodle = Cockapoo). These dogs are very friendly, loyal, and playful. They are good with children and other dogs and are typically very easy to train.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature Greyhound. The body style of this dog is nearly exactly like that of his racing cousins, but in a convenient, compact size. These dogs are gentle and submissive. They become very emotionally attached to their people. They are obedient and easy to train, but prone to mischief – and they know when they’ve been naughty. They get along well with children – if the children are well behaved. If the kids are high strung and rambunctious, the dog will be too. It is best in a quiet household. The coat of the Italian Greyhound is short and sleek and they don’t shed much at all.
Miniature Poodle
The Miniature Poodle is not truly a breed all to itself, but one of the three AKC recognized sizes of Poodles. Like all Poodles, they shed very little, but their short, curly coats require considerable grooming. They are very intelligent, playful, and quite trainable. They generally get along well with children, but they can be sensitive or nervous around rowdy kids. They easily integrate with a family and feel that they have to be a part of all family activities. They will often act as though they’ve been slighted if not included in family activities.
Note
Many people believe that if you get a dog that does not shed that someone who is allergic to dogs will have no allergic reaction. That is not true! One of the dogs I am most allergic to is the miniature poodle. Although he did not shed, I was still allergic to his dander and saliva. Talk with your allergist before deciding to purchase a dog where there is a person with dog allergies.
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