It is transmitted through the feces and vomit of infected dogs and puppies. The virus can live in feces for up to 2 weeks and in the environment up to two years. Parvo can be transmitted by anything that comes into contact with the virus such as grooming or veterinary instruments, hands, clothing, and shoes. The good news is that those that do recover are then immune to reinfection for at least 20 months, possibly for life. This includes the beach as sea lions are carriers of parvo.
Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease caused by a tiny virus.
If a dog survives, it leaves the dog s nervous system irreparably damaged, along with its sense of smell, hearing or sight. Contact with the urine and fecal material of infected dogs can also result in infection. A healthy dog can become infected without coming in contact with an infected animal. Kennels, runs and other areas used by infected dogs can harbor canine distemper virus. The virus can be borne by air currents and inanimate objects.