Canine parvovirus (CPV), commonly called parvo, is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect dogs of all ages but occurs most often in unvaccinated puppies. By understanding parvo’s signs, prevention measures, and treatment options, you can help protect your four-legged friend. Our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team provides an overview of CPV.
What causes parvo in dogs?
Canine parvovirus is caused by a virus that targets the rapidly dividing cells in a dog’s body, particularly affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Infected dogs often have persistent diarrhea, usually bloody, which leads to dehydration. Parvo is highly resilient and can survive in the environment, including soil, for extended periods, making transmission easy. Transmission typically occurs through:
- Contact — Dogs can contract the virus by coming into contact with an infected dog or with contaminated objects such as food, bowls, leashes, or even people’s clothing.
- Fecal-oral route — The most common transmission occurs through the ingestion of infected feces. Even minute amounts of fecal material can carry the parvovirus.
- Contaminated environments — Parvovirus can persist in the environment, such as on floors, grass, soil, or surfaces, and can be transmitted to dogs that come into contact with these contaminated areas.
Parvo signs in dogs
Parvo signs can appear in a dog within three to seven days after exposure to the virus and can progress rapidly, making early detection and treatment critical. CPV health effects can vary. However, keep an eye out for the following typical signs:
- Severe vomiting — One of the most common parvo signs is persistent vomiting, which can quickly lead to dehydration.
- Diarrhea — Bloody diarrhea is often a hallmark parvo sign and can contribute to severe fluid loss and dehydration.
- Lethargy — Dogs affected with parvo may become weak and less active.
- Loss of appetite — Dogs with parvovirus often refuse food or cannot keep food down.
- Fever or hypothermia — Parvo may cause fever initially, but an infected dog’s body temperature may drop as the disease progresses.
- Abdominal pain and bloating — Some dogs have mild to severe abdominal pain and a distended abdomen.
Canine parvovirus treatment
Our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team treats CPV by administering the canine parvovirus monoclonal antibody (CPMA) and providing supportive care to help the dog’s immune system overcome the virus. In addition to the CPMA, critical treatment aspects include:
- Hospitalization — Most dogs with parvovirus require hospitalization to receive intensive care.
- Intravenous (IV) fluids — To combat dehydration, our team administers IV fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Monoclonal antibody treatment — A monoclonal antibody treatment is now available that can significantly improve a puppy’s chances of surviving parvo.
- Anti-nausea medication — Our veterinarian typically prescribes medications to control vomiting and nausea.
- Antibiotics — Although antibiotics do not kill the virus, they often prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections resulting from a weakened immune system and compromised gut lining.
- Nutritional support — In severe cases, nutritional support through a feeding tube may be necessary.
Canine parvovirus prevention
Considering parvo’s severity, knowing how to prevent the virus from impacting your four-legged friend is critical. To protect your dog from parvo, follow these tips:
- Vaccination — The most effective way to prevent parvo is through vaccination. Puppies should receive their first parvo vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs should receive regular booster shots as recommended by our veterinarian.
- Limit exposure — Puppies and unvaccinated dogs should avoid contact with other dogs, particularly in dog parks, until they are fully vaccinated. This precaution reduces their parvo exposure risk.
- Proper hygiene — Regularly clean and disinfect all surfaces, bedding, and feeding equipment. Use a bleach solution—1 part bleach to 32 parts water—to disinfect contaminated areas. Bleach is one of the few disinfectants effective against parvo. Practice good hygiene through handwashing and by changing your clothes after handling other dogs, especially if they are suspected of being infected.
- Quarantine — If a dog in your household contracts parvo, isolate them immediately to prevent the virus from spreading. Infected dogs should be kept away from other pets for at least a month after recovery, as they may still shed the virus.
CPV is a severe and potentially life-threatening illness, but with prompt veterinary care and preventive measures, many dogs can recover and live healthy lives. Is your furry friend vaccinated against parvo? Schedule an appointment with our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team so we can help your dog enjoy lifelong health.
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