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Can a dog owner visit my unvaccinated puppy without spreading parvo?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 23 days old | 22 lbs

hello, i am getting a puppy tommorow and i was told not to take it out before it has all the vaccinations done. can a dog owner come visit us, WITHOUT the dog? i should mention that the person has a healthy (i think) dog now, but has had 2 other dogs before this one who died and i think the reason was parvovirosis even if she doesnt want to admit it. can she infect my dog even if she doesnt bring her dog in my house? do humans carry the virus assuming their dog is infected? are there any risks?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

There is a fine line between being too over protective and not socializing the puppy enough. I think walks on side walks and NON dog parks are fine. I think playing with healthy (not recently sick or currently sick) and 100% vaccinated animals is also fine. I do not recommend boarding, doggie daycare or dog parks until 2 weeks after the puppy's final vaccinations. So yes I think it absolutely fine for your friend to visit. Humans can carry viruses. If it has been 2 months since her previous dog died of parvo it is likely safe. She should leave her shoes outside and have clean clothes on. Have her wash her hands before playing with your puppy. If she recently, with in 2 months, had a parvo infected dog that is still alive in her house I would not have her visit.

Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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