How to Disinfect a Home After Parvo

Parvovirus

Parvovirus, or Parvo, is a potentially lethal virus that is only carried by dogs. Parvo is most commonly transmitted through feces or vomit from an infected dog. When an unvaccinated dog is exposed to an area contaminated by infected excrement, the virus can attack it, causing stomach discomfort, diarrhea and bloody stools. If left untreated, Parvo can cause further digestive and heart problems, which can lead to death. To prevent the spread of Parvo, infected areas should be thoroughly disinfected and sanitized.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Trash bag
• Scrub brush
• Sponge
• Bucket
• OdoBan
• Disposable gloves and clothing

Instructions

How To Disinfect A Home After Parvo

1. Wash all fabrics the dog has touched. Use bleach in the warm-wash cycle to kill any Parvo that may be present in the fabric. Include any bedding, blankets, towels, pillows, rugs, or clothing the dog has had contact with.

2. Disinfect flooring. Use a solution of two parts bleach to one part water to disinfect hard surfaces such as tile, wood, cement, and linoleum. Use a stiff scrub brush to thoroughly clean the entire floor, including corners. Pour the bleach solution down the drain. Mix another bleach solution and repeat the process to ensure that all traces of the virus are killed.

3. Wipe down counters, cabinets and doors using a large spray bottle filled with a solution of two parts bleach to one part warm water. With a sponge, use small circular motions to thoroughly scrub the surfaces with the bleach mixture. Rinse the surfaces with warm water and allow to dry.

4. Remove all feces on your property. Place feces in a plastic trash bag and seal tightly. Remove and dispose of the bag away from the property. Disinfect areas where feces were found with a mix of two parts bleach to one part water.

5. Disinfect carpeting and furniture. Hire a carpet and upholstery professional to thoroughly steam-clean and disinfect carpeting and fabric furniture. Follow by spraying OdoBan on all upholstered furniture and carpets. OdoBan is a color-safe sanitizer and disinfectant available at many stores. Follow manufacturer's instructions for mixing ratios.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear disposable gloves and clothes while cleaning. Wash items from top to bottom. Soak all cleaning supplies directly in a bleach solution to avoid recontamination.

• Do not walk in a disinfected area wearing contaminated clothing. Dispose of all clothing and shoes after decontamination.