Unfortunately, Sweeden was recently diagnosed with parvovirus. Canine parvovirus (CPV, commonly referred to as “parvo)  attacks the small intestine lining, causing it to stop replicating effectively. This makes it impossible for young dogs to absorb nutrients, and it allows other bacteria in the intestines to infect the rest of their body. Puppies between the ages of six weeks and six months are most vulnerable to parvo. Parvovirus is most often spread through exposure to the feces of infected dogs. Dogs that have parvo generally don’t develop symptoms for three to seven days, but they can still be infectious. The first noticeable symptoms of parvovirus are usually unexpected tiredness or lethargy. Next, your dog may lose their appetite as the virus attacks their small intestine lining. Shortly after, they will spike a sudden fever and begin to have diarrhea and vomiting. Because parvo can be deadly, the goal should be to prevent infection, not to treat it afterward. Since it’s a virus, it can’t be treated with antibiotics. Instead, most veterinarians focus on treating the symptoms so that the dog’s own immune system can work to fight off the invaders. Currently, Sweeden is being treated by a veterinarian and is showing signs of improvement.