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Question:

My 7 year old dachshund died from Parvo

I’m at a loss and could really use some guidance right now. My heart is shattered because I just lost my sweet 7-year-old dachshund to parvo. It all happened so quickly—I noticed he was feeling off, not eating much and just seemed lethargic, but I never imagined it would be something this serious. We took him to the vet as soon as he started vomiting, and they did everything they could, but it was too late. Now, I’m trying to come to terms with what happened and figure out how to prevent this nightmare from happening again, especially since I have a 2-year-old beagle at home. What steps should I take to ensure my other dog stays healthy? I've been cleaning like crazy, but I’m not sure if it’s enough. Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated. I’m still in shock and really need some clarity on where to go from here.

Answer:

I'm really sorry to hear about your loss. Losing a pet is incredibly tough, and my heart goes out to you. Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects dogs, especially puppies and young dogs. It targets rapidly dividing cells, which is why it often hits the intestinal tract and, in severe cases, the heart.



In adult dogs, like your dachshund, contracting parvo is less common but can happen, especially if there were lapses in vaccination or some underlying health condition that made them more vulnerable. It typically spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated feces. Symptoms usually include severe vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), lethargy, and loss of appetite.



Though there's not much you can do after the virus has taken hold, preventive measures are crucial for other pets. Ensure any other dogs at home are up to date on their vaccinations. Also, thoroughly disinfect areas where your dachshund spent time, as the virus can remain present in the environment.



If you notice any other pets showing signs like vomiting or diarrhea, please seek veterinary care quickly.



If you're worried or need further support in understanding more about parvo and how to protect your remaining pets, consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. We're here to help you through it.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 26, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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