It’s possible for a puppy to get a parvo infection from grass, either directly or indirectly.
With a high mortality rate, the canine parvovirus (CPV) infection can be a ticking time bomb for every dog owner. Unfortunately, knowing that disease transmits through common surfaces doesn’t make the situation less stressful.
So, how can puppies get parvo from grass, and what can you do about it? Let’s find out!
How Can Puppies Get Parvo From Grass?
CPV mainly transmits between dogs through the oral-fecal route. That’s why some people might think their pup is safe if he goes nowhere near other dogs’ excreta.
However, that’s not always the case.
Even small traces that linger on the grass can pass on the infection, especially to younger and more curious dogs.
Here’s how:
1. Infected Dog Defecates on the Grass
The process starts when an infected dog deposits the parvovirus on the grass through fecal matter.
This process can happen if a neighborhood dog visits your lawn for a nature’s call. Plus, the infection is also common in public spaces, especially parks.
Keep in mind that infected canines can spread the disease from day one of contracting it. With an incubation period of 3-7 days, you won’t even know they’re ill at that point!
2. Disease Transmits From the Grass to Your Puppy
Once the feces contaminate the grass, there are two ways that your pooch can get parvo; directly and indirectly.
Direct Contact
The most common route of infection here is the direct one.
Because dogs are curious little things, they might go up to the excreta to examine it. Basically, all it takes is a couple of sniffs and a lick to pass on parvo to your poor pup.
Indirect Contact
Even if you keep your pup off the lawn, there’s still a possibility that he’ll get parvo from the grass.
That’s because you might unintentionally act as a bridge for disease transmission.
Imagine you touching the contaminated surface and don’t wash your hands thoroughly. Then, you could pass on the virus while feeding your dog or playing with him.
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How Long Does Parvovirus Survive on Grass?
Despite their tiny size, parvovirus particles are actually pretty resilient. The CPV traces can survive for months on end outdoors.
However, sunlight can reduce the virus’ vitality a bit.
The contamination could last up to seven months in shaded spots versus five months in areas with direct sunlight.
Unfortunately, the infection is winter hardy and resistant to many household cleaning products.
This means that your pup contacting parvo from grass is always a possible risk to consider all year round.
Is It Possible to Prevent Parvo Infections From Grass?
Parvo can be a dangerous condition to contract. The dehydration alone could be fatal in a couple of days.
That’s why it’s always better to invest your time and effort in proacti