Ask a Vet!
Ask a Vet!
Our online veterinarian, WWWiz, Vet.,
gives you helpful tips on pet care.
Parvovirus in Humans
11/11/96 Q: I just read one of your Q & A on parvo. You stated that humans couldn't get parvo from a dog and vice versa. I do have a question I would like to ask you anyway. My mother was giving our dog, which has parvo, his IV medicine. When she was removing the old needle to replace it with a new one, the old needle slipped and went into her finger. Is there any danger of her getting any kind of disease from this needle? I would greatly appreciate an answer soon. Thank you.
A: The real risk to your mother is the usual risk that comes with being stuck with a needle that has been previously used. Your mother should consult her personal physician regarding other types of infections she possibly could have picked up from the needle. Good luck.
Q: 10/20/96 Regarding becoming a veterinarian: I would appreciate if you would give me information on:
1. the subjects required
2. how many years of school it would take
3. your opinion on the best schools for this
4. approximate annual salary
5. any other information you think is relevant
A: 1. Subjects: For this I recommend consulting the individual veterinary schools for their requirements.
2. Number of years: Typically three to four years of undergraduate school and four years of veterinary school.
3. Best schools: There are approximately 24 schools in the nation. They are all good, but I went to the University of Georgia and, of course, I think it is the best.
4. Salary: Typical average starting salary for a veterinarian "fresh" out of school is approximately $25,000.