Protecting Your Dog from Parvovirus and Other Pathogens: Why Cleaning Paws Is Essential

As devoted pet parents, we invest in the best food, daily walks, and regular grooming — but in 2026, one often-overlooked detail has become critical: cleaning your dog’s paws after walks.

With new cases of canine parvovirus in Vancouver, especially near the Downtown Eastside and various parks in East Vancouver (so far), and increased awareness of bacteria like Shigella, it’s time we treat paw hygiene as essential, not optional — especially for senior dogs, puppies, and immunocompromised pets.

Bowie Vargr (Husky/English Mastiff mix) is testing out the PawBarrier+ spray post-walk

Parvovirus in Vancouver: 2026 Veterinary Alerts

Veterinary clinics across Vancouver have reported a spike in canine parvovirus cases, particularly in:

• Dog parks and community trails

• Public sidewalks and grassy areas

• The Downtown Eastside and other high-contact urban zones

BC SPCA Is Offering Free Parvo Vaccines

In response, SPCA clinics in Vancouver are now providing free parvovirus vaccinations to:

• Unvaccinated dogs or those behind on boosters

• Senior pets with reduced immunity

• Dogs in high-risk or low-income households

But here’s what many don’t realize: Parvovirus can survive in soil and on concrete for months, and can be picked up on your dog’s paws, even if they’re fully vaccinated.

Why Regular Dog Wipes Don’t Work Against Viruses

Most store-bought paw wipes only remove dirt or surface debris — they aren’t made to kill tough viruses or antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They often:

• Include fragrance or alcohol, which can dry and irritate paws (check the ingredients)

• Leave behind residue that pets lick

• Are ineffective against parvovirus, Shigella, Salmonella, and MRSA

• Most wipes are non-compostable and adjust your dog's natural pH-balance

If you’re wondering how to disinfect dog paws from parvo, the answer lies in using a safe antiviral agent — and that’s where hypochlorous acid comes in.

Introducing:

Soul Paws PawBarrier+

A Healthier, Cleaner Walk for Your Dog — Every Day

Soul Paws PawBarrier+ is a Canadian-made antimicrobial spray created specifically for dogs and cats. It uses hypochlorous acid (HOCl) at a gentle but powerful 75 ppm — the same active ingredient used in vet clinics and hospitals.

If you’re searching for a hypochlorous acid paw spray in Canada, this is it.

Why Pet Owners Love PawBarrier+

Kills tough pathogens like parvovirus, Shigella, and more

Safe if licked — free of alcohol, fragrance, and harsh chemicals

Soothes irritated paws, minor wounds, and cracked pads

Skin pH balanced for dogs, cats, and even human hands

Proudly made in Canada 🇨🇦 and backed by veterinary research

How to Use PawBarrier+ for Daily Protection

If you’re wondering how to clean dog paws to prevent parvovirus, follow this routine:

✅ Spray directly on your dog’s paws after walks

✅ Let air dry or wipe with a clean cloth

✅ Use before coming indoors or after visiting high-risk areas

✅ Keep a bottle in your car, by your front door, or in your walk bag

Perfect for:

• Walks through urban sidewalks and green spaces

• Visits to vets, groomers, or pet stores

• Dogs that play in shared yards or parks

Final Thoughts: Protection Starts at the Paw

While vaccines are crucial, they’re only one piece of the puzzle. For full protection — especially in cities like Vancouver during parvovirus outbreaks — use a safe, antiviral paw spray daily.

📦 Order Soul Paws PawBarrier+ today and give your dog the gift of safe, soothed, and sanitized paws — every walk, every day. Free local delivery with a minimum $50 service/product order and Canada-wide shipping available too!