Parvovirus is a serious and potentially deadly illness that can affect dogs. Many pet owners wonder if their dogs can get parvo more than once. While it is rare for dogs to fall ill with the same strain of parvo twice, it is not impossible. This is because there are multiple strains of canine parvovirus, and viruses have the ability to mutate over time.
To understand this better, let's draw an analogy with the flu virus. If we survive the flu in one year, it doesn't mean we are protected from a new strain that arrives later. Similarly, dogs that have survived one strain of parvo may not be protected against other known strains or their mutations.
The Science and Research Behind Parvo
It is important to note that canine parvovirus does not receive as much attention and research funding as the human flu virus. Consequently, information and solid statistics about parvo may lag behind, making prevention more challenging. However, there are certain areas where there is consensus and research progress:
Contributing Factors for Dogs Getting Parvo Twice
Overall Health of Surviving Dog
Research suggests that when dogs receive early treatment for parvo, about 90% of them will recover. However, approximately 10% of survivors may experience lifelong health complications and potentially a weakened immune system. If your dog falls into this category, they may not have developed the necessary immunity to fight off a second bout of parvo.
The Age When a Dog Survives Parvo
The age at which a dog survives parvo can also impact their immunity. If your dog survives parvo at a young age and lives for many more years, their immunity may not last throughout their entire life. On the other hand, if they survive parvo later in life, they are more likely to be immunized for the rest of their life.
Variable and Mutating Parvo Strains
Just like the flu virus, parvo strains can vary and mutate. Vaccines for parvo are designed to protect against multiple strains, but there have been cases where vaccinated dogs still became ill when exposed to certain strains. This suggests that vaccine failure could occur in different strains or in severe outbreak situations. It is important to note that vaccines are not the same as natural immunity achieved through survival.
Viral Particle Exposure Count
Severe outbreaks of parvo are less common due to vaccines, but they can still occur. If a dog enters a highly contaminated area with a high concentration of viral particles and ingests the virus, they may not be able to overcome the mass concentration.
How to Keep a Surviving Dog Protected from Parvo
To keep your surviving dog protected from parvo, it is essential to collaborate with your veterinarian. Regular visits to the vet provide an opportunity to ask questions and stay informed about parvo outbreaks in your area. Your vet can also recommend booster shots or titer tests to gauge your dog's immunity.
Additionally, avoiding hotspots for parvo outbreaks is crucial. These hotspots include kennels, groomers, dog parks, pet stores that allow dogs, and vet offices. It is important to be mindful during walks and prevent your dog from sniffing or licking feces. If you work in the dog industry, having parvo killers on hand can help disinfect any viral particles you may have carried home.
Can Dogs Get Parvo Twice – Summary
To summarize, dogs can get parvo more than once, although it is rare. The best way to protect your dog is to remain diligent, informed, and proactive. Assume that your dog is not protected for life and maintain a proper booster schedule. Discuss with your vet whether titer testing or boosters are necessary in the future. Remember to bring up the topic during every vet appointment to ensure your dog's continued protection.
Keys to take away:
- Dogs can get parvo more than once, although it is rare.
- Multiple factors contribute to a second occurrence of parvo, including the overall health of the dog, the age at which they survived parvo, and the variable nature of parvo strains.
- Collaboration with your veterinarian is essential to staying informed about parvo outbreaks and ensuring your dog's protection.
- Avoiding hotspots for parvo outbreaks and practicing good hygiene can reduce the risk of reinfection.
- Remain proactive and discuss with your vet the best course of action for your dog's ongoing protection.
To learn more about canine parvovirus and how to care for your pets, visit HowPetCare.