Parvo is a highly contagious disease that attacks the intestinal tract and the white blood. It is spread through contact with the feces of infected dogs and can be carried on shoes, or on the hair or feet of infected dogs. One infected dog at an expo, an animal shelter or any other facility can spread the virus.

Symptoms of parvo appear 5-7 days after exposure and include depression, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Feces are generally light-colored to yellow-gray and may be streaked with blood. Puppies under the age of 6 months are most susceptible to the disease. If the virus attacks the heart, puppies can die within hours or live for a few weeks.