Canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) is a highly contagious viral infection that can kill puppies and dogs. It is spread by any animal or anything that comes into touch with an infected dog’s feces. Puppies, adolescent dogs, and adult dogs who have not been vaccinated are at risk of contracting the virus. Preventing parvovirus in your puppy or dog could mean the difference between life and death.

Parvovirus Symptoms

Lethargy, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and bloating, fever or low body temperature, vomiting, and severe, often bloody diarrhea are signs of parvovirus. Consistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration quickly, and intestinal and immune system damage can lead to septic shock.

If your pooch displays any of these signs, you should contact your good veterinary surgeon. Most parvovirus deaths happen within 48 to 72 hours of clinical symptoms appearing.

Diagnosis and Therapy

Parvovirus infection is usually suspected based on the dog’s history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. To confirm the diagnosis, fecal tests may be required. There is no specific medication available to remove the virus from infected dogs. Treatment is intended to reinforce the dog’s body systems until the dog’s immune system can fight the viral infection.

 Treatment should begin as soon as possible, focusing on rehydrating the patient by replenishing electrolytes, protein, and fluid losses, controlling vomiting and diarrhea, and deterring secondary ailments. Sick canines must be kept warm and receive enough nursing care. When a dog becomes infected with parvovirus, treatment can be prohibitively expensive, and the dog may die despite aggressive treatment. For a successful outcome, early detection and prompt treatment are essential. With proper care, survival rates can surpass 90%.

Because parvovirus is very contagious, it is critical to isolate infected dogs to prevent infection spread. Cleaning and sanitizing polluted kennels and other locations where infected dogs are (or have been) properly housed. Because the virus is difficult to remove, consult this pet hospital or your veterinarian for particular cleaning and disinfection product suggestions.

Parvovirus Prevention

Vaccination and adequate hygiene are important preventative strategies.

Young puppies are especially vulnerable to infection because the natural immunity produced by their mothers’ milk may wear off before the puppies’ immune systems mature enough to battle infection. If a puppy is exposed to canine parvovirus at this period of reduced resistance, it may become unwell.

Furthermore, the protection supplied by mother’s milk may hinder an effective vaccination response. This means that even completely vaccinated puppies can get parvovirus and become ill from time to time. Throughout the first several months of a puppy’s life, a series of vaccinations are administered to bridge protection gaps and protect against parvovirus. Despite past vaccinations, puppies should be immunized against canine parvovirus at 14 to 16 weeks.

Pet owners should ensure that their adult dogs’ parvovirus immunization is up to date in order to prevent them from parvovirus illness. While titers can be used to identify a dog’s level of antibodies against canine parvovirus, the number of antibodies does not necessarily translate into protection when the dog is exposed to the virus. Consult your veterinarian about a preventative regimen for your dog and Cats and Dogs Dental Care as well. 

Conclusion

The word “parvo,” which stands for parvovirus, sends chills down your spine. This highly contagious virus is notorious for quickly turning a previously healthy puppy who was showering you with stinky puppy breath kisses and playing one day into an almost or fatally ill dog in a matter of days. Fortunately, this illness in dogs is preventable and treatable if detected early.