Protecting Your Foster Pets from Parvovirus and Ensuring Their Health
As a foster caregiver, your role in safeguarding vulnerable puppies and dogs is crucial. Parvovirus remains one of the most dangerous and contagious diseases affecting dogs, but with proper prevention, hygiene, and vaccination protocols, you can protect your foster pets and prevent outbreaks.
Understanding Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal lining and immune system. It spreads rapidly through contact with contaminated feces, environments, or objects. Young puppies, especially those who haven't completed their vaccination series, are most at risk.
Recognizing Symptoms
Early detection is vital. Watch for:
Severe bloody diarrhea
Persistent vomiting
Loss of appetite
Dehydration
Lethargy or weakness
If your puppy exhibits any of these signs, schedule an appointment through Acuity immediately for our medical team to evaluate your foster. Whenever possible, upload photos or videos so our team can assess the situation even before the dog arrives. This helps us prepare the right treatment and support
To schedule a medical appointment, follow the link below:
https://fwacc.as.me/schedule/370995a2
Thinking ahead can save lives. Follow these essential prevention steps:
Vaccination Schedule
At Fort Worth Animal Care and Control, we require puppies to receive booster DAPP vaccines every two weeks until they reach 20 weeks of age. Puppies often arrive here with no prior medical care, so maintaining this schedule is critical. Because puppies do not develop natural immunity until around 16 weeks, consistent vaccination boosters are necessary to build and maintain their immune defenses.
Adherence to Vaccination Protocols
As a foster caregiver, it’s vital to follow the vaccination schedule precisely. Missing or delaying vaccines can significantly increase the risk of illness and disease spread.
Isolation Period
Newly arrived puppies should remain in isolation for a minimum of two weeks. This isolation period allows you to monitor for any signs of illness and prevents the spread of infectious diseases to other animals. It is especially important during the early stages of your foster puppy’s stay.
Care for Puppies Under 16 Weeks or Without Complete Vaccinations
Puppies under 16 weeks old or those who haven’t yet received their boosters should:
Avoid shared outdoor spaces or common areas where other dogs play or visit
Be supervised closely
Disinfection and Hygiene Practices
Viruses like Parvo can survive in environments for months, even years. Proper cleaning is critical:
Wash bedding, toys, and any cloth items in hot water with a veterinarian-approved disinfectant
Regularly disinfect all surfaces, including floors, kennels, and shared equipment
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling dogs or cleaning contaminated areas
Use disposable gloves and dedicated cleaning tools for infected areas
Designate specific spaces for isolating sick animals and disinfect frequently
Recognizing and Responding to Symptoms
If your foster pet shows symptoms of Parvovirus or you suspect infection:
Isolate the animal immediately
Contact your foster coordinator
Schedule a medical appointment
Final Tips for a Healthy Foster Environment
Ensure all dogs are vaccinated according to schedule
Maintain strict hygiene and disinfect all shared spaces and items regularly
Isolate sick or unvaccinated puppies to prevent disease transmission
Monitor your foster dogs consistently for any signs of illness
Collaborate closely with veterinary professionals and your foster team
Your diligent care, strict vaccination adherence, and thorough hygiene practices are essential in preventing Parvovirus outbreaks. Together, we can create a safe, healthy environment for every foster pet and help them thrive in their journey to a loving forever home.
For questions, support, or more information, contact us at:
FWACCfoster@fortworthtexas.gov