When you have a puppy that is unvaccinated, it is important that you take steps to ensure they are not infected with parvovirus. Also called "parvo", this contagious virus can be dangerous to your puppy's life. The best way to protect them is to have them vaccinated by a vet; until you do that, here are some things you can do to prevent your puppy from getting this disease.

Don't Let Your Puppy Play with Dogs You Don't Know

Parvo is generally spread through contact with dog feces. That's why it is so important to keep your dog away from other canines unless you are sure they have received the vaccine. This might mean you need to limit time in dog parks and playgrounds, because you don't know which dogs are vaccinated or which dogs are carrying the virus. If your dog walks where infected dogs have been, feces could get on your dog's paws, and when they clean themselves, they could be at risk.

Change Clothes Before Going into Your Home if You Work with Dogs

If you spend a lot of time with other dogs or work with them, it is vital that you don't track bacteria and germs into your home and pass them to your dog. Keep an extra change of clothes with you so that you can avoid going into your house wearing clothing that carries the virus.

Use Bleach to Disinfect Surfaces in Your House

If you had other dogs before your puppy, you might not have had them vaccinated for parvovirus. To keep your little puppy safe, it is a good idea to wipe surfaces down with a slightly diluted chlorine bleach solution made of bleach and water. Soapy water alone won't kill parvovirus, but bleach can.

Take Note of Any Symptoms

Even if you use the other tips in this article, your puppy might still get this virus. Knowing what the signs are can help you get your puppy treatment if they need it. Some symptoms of parvovirus include:

• Diarrhea
• Lack of appetite
• Isolating themselves
• Vomiting
• Lethargy

If your dog starts to exhibit any of the above behaviors, take them to the vet as soon as you can.

Now that you are aware of what you can do to help your puppy avoid parvovirus, use the tips above to help you make the right choices. Have them vaccinated for this virus as soon as you can, and be sure to talk with a vet, like those at Basking Ridge Animal Hospital, about more vaccinations your dog might require.