Parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs, causing a range of symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improve a dog’s chances of survival. Knowing how to check for parvo can help dog owners and veterinarians identify the virus promptly and initiate appropriate medical care.
The most common method of checking for parvo is through a fecal test. This test detects the presence of parvovirus antigens in the dog’s stool. The test is relatively inexpensive, easy to perform, and can provide results within minutes. Another method of checking for parvo is through a blood test. This test measures the dog’s antibody levels to the virus. A high antibody level may indicate that the dog has been exposed to the virus and has developed immunity. However, a negative antibody test does not necessarily rule out parvo, as it may take several days for the antibodies to become detectable.
