Parvo virus is a disease that causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. It most often infects puppies or adolescent dogs with partial or no vaccination. This virus can be contracted from any substance, such as the soil or walking in the same area as a dog which has been incubating the virus . We recommend vaccinating your dog once a year for adequate protection.
     Parvoviruses are a large group; almost every mammal species (including humans) seems to have its own parvovirus.  Each virus is pretty specific about what animals it can infect (i.e. the pig parvovirus will not infect people, the canine parvovirus will not infect cats, etc.) The canine parvovirus will affect most members of the dog family (wolves, coyotes, foxes etc.).
     The canine parvo virus causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.  The virus has an affinity for the lining of the canine gastrointestinal tract and makes it difficult for the dog to absorb nutrients.  The virus can cause a serious infection and can even be deadly. 
    Parvo virus can be stable in the environment and any place a dog with parvo virus has been should be disinfected thoroughly.  A dilute bleach solution (1 part bleach to 30 parts water) is the most effective way to rid an area of parvo virus.  An outside area exposed to parvo virus that cannot be bleached should be thoroughly watered. The water can help to dilute the amount of parvo virus in the area.

The best way to prevent parvovirus is with routine vaccination.