ALT Canine Parvovirus. What you need to know about this highly contagious and potentially deadly disease. The virus can be transmitted if a dog sniffs or ingests the feces of an infected dog, or has contact with a contaminated environment or object. Parvovirus can survive on surfaces or in the environment for many months and possibly years. Surfaces must be cleaned with a bleach solution, Neither soap nor extreme weather will kill this virus. Puppies are vulnerable until fully vaccinated. Keep them away from places where dogs congregate.