Parvovirus in Dogs

Canine parvovirus (parvo) is a virus (germ) that makes dogs sick. The virus attacks a dog's intestines and immune system. It is highly contagious between dogs and is often fatal to them. Every year, hundreds of dogs in Los Angeles (LA) County get sick with canine parvo. You can protect your dog by getting them vaccinated. People do not get sick from canine parvovirus.

Parvo in Dogs - Epidemiology Updates:

• 2016: 1st quarter (PDF)
• 2015: 1st quarter (PDF) | 2nd quarter (PDF) | 3rd quarter (PDF) | 4th quarter (PDF)

Dogs can catch parvo when they touch other dogs that have it or the ground where a sick dog has walked or defecated. A dog with parvo contaminates its environment with the virus. So dogs can also catch parvo from the bedding, toys, bowls, and even the yard of a dog that has parvo. The virus can live for months in an environment, including in public parks and dog parks. Puppies are most likely to catch it. Humans do NOT get sick from this virus.

Parvo causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The diarrhea is usually severe and often bloody. Dogs with parvo usually become very lethargic, dehydrated and have no appetite. Dogs can die from parvo.

Especially important for puppies: keep your puppy away from other dogs and public parks until after it has finished the FULL series of puppy shots.

Get your dog vaccinated! Vaccination saves dogs’ lives and saves money. It costs much less money to protect your dog with vaccinations than to treat your dog for parvo. The DHLPP (or DHPP) vaccine protects your dog from parvo (It is one of the "Ps" in DHLPP). One shot is not enough! Keep your puppy away from public areas until it has finished the first series of shots. Allow your puppy to play only with a few healthy, vaccinated dogs in a yard where you know no sick dogs have been in the last year.

Protect Your Dog from Parvo! (English & Spanish) (PDF)

DHLPP Vaccination Schedule for Dogs

• Puppies: Puppies should get this vaccine at age 2, 3, and 4 months of age, then again a year later.
• Unvaccinated adult dogs: Adult dogs should get this vaccine twice (one month apart) then again a year later.
• Booster shots: After their starting series, all dogs should get the DHLPP shot every 1-3 years for life.

• Veterinary hospitals: Team up with a local veterinarian to keep your dog healthy. Many veterinary hospitals offer low-cost vaccinations on certain days. Learn more about vaccinations.
• Animal Shelters: Most animal shelters offer low-cost vaccination on certain days. Find Animal Control Agencies and Shelters in your area of LA County.