Can humans Get Parvo from Dogs?

Tags: Dog HealthUpdated on Jun 25, 2022

Can humans get parvo from dogs? It is not possible for humans to contract parvo from dogs. The virus can only be transferred from one animal to another. It is highly unlikely that a pet dog can give humans parvo. Therefore, you should not worry about this happening to you when your dog becomes sick or passes away.

What is Parvo?

Parvo is a kind of virus that can cause intestinal damage in dogs. It is most common in young adult dogs and puppies. This type of sickness is fatal and all dogs die from it without proper treatment, but with advanced medical care, there is a good chance of survival.

How to Tell if Your Dog Has Parvo

Dogs with parvo will have the following symptoms:

1. Diarrhea

One of the most common symptoms of this sickness is diarrhea. Your dog will become very thin which will cause them to be weak and unable to walk. This could cause the dog to vomit or pass away.

2. Lethargy

If your dog is suffering from parvo, they might give you signs that they are sick. Your dog will have little energy and will stop eating. If you notice lethargy in your pet, it could be a sign of parvo.

3. Vomiting

Some dogs will develop vomiting and your dog may look very ill. You should keep them in a separate room in case they pass out. Some dogs that have parvo vomit blood as well so do not be alarmed if you notice that.

How to Treat Parvo

If your dog has this sickness, you should not wait until the last minute to treat it. The better you treat them early on, the better your chances of survival are. Ask for help from a qualified vet immediately.

Prevention of Parvo

There are several ways to protect your dog from getting parvo:

1. Vaccination

The most effective way to protect your dog is by vaccinating them. Vaccines will not fully protect your dog from the virus but they will stop them from getting sick if they are exposed to it. The vaccines are very safe and effective for all dogs, even those that have had parvo before.

2. Do Not Let Your Dog Play with Others

Some dogs may become sick from playing with other dogs. This can give them parvo if they get infected by another dog. Therefore, it is best to keep your dog away from other dogs if you have any concerns about them getting sick.

3. Maintaining Hygiene

Keep your dog away from areas where there are feces or vomit of other animals. This can cause them to become sick if they come in contact with it.

Conclusion

It is impossible for humans to get parvo from dogs. The disease is passed from one animal to another and unfortunate cases of humans becoming infected are very rare. If your dog has parvo, get help from a trained vet immediately. Proper disposal of your dog's corpse is also very important.

References

[1] ^ CDC: About Human Parvovirus B19 | CDC
[2] ^ Cleveland Clinic: Parvovirus Infection: Tests, Symptoms & Treatments