OCT 24 Newsletter

Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
By Krista Albers-Smith, LVT

The last thing any new puppy owner wants to hear is a diagnosis of parvovirus. Canine parvovirus (CPV), or “Parvo”, is a common disease that can have deadly consequences if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms and how to prevent infection can help keep your puppy healthy.

The primary source of parvovirus is the feces of other infected dogs. The virus is stable in the environment and resistant to heat, detergents, alcohol, and many other disinfectants. Because of its hardiness, it can be transmitted via hair or feet of infected dogs or on shoes, clothes, or other objects contaminated by feces.
Once exposed to fecal material and ingested, the virus invades white blood cells to be carried throughout the body, most notably the bone marrow and the lining of the intestines. Dogs will usually become ill within three to seven days after exposure, but they will start to shed the virus in their feces before they show any clinical signs. They will continue to shed the virus for two weeks after resolution of symptoms.

The hallmark clinical signs of CPV are severe vomiting and diarrhea that has a powerful smell. The diarrhea may contain a large amount of mucus and blood. Dogs will also experience lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, dehydration, and fever. Parvo can affect dogs at any life stage, but is most common in unvaccinated dogs less than 1 year of age. Puppies less than five months old are usually the most severely affected and difficult to treat. Because of this, any unvaccinated puppy that comes into Parks Veterinary showing signs of parvovirus infection will likely be tested. We use a relatively rapid in-clinic test to check for virus antigens in fecal material.

There is no treatment to kill the virus once a dog has been infected with CPV. The virus causes the loss of the lining of the intestinal tract and weakens the immune system. The damage to the intestines results in severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and infection in the bloodstream that can lead to sepsis. Treatment for Parvo patients involves intensive supportive care, including correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances with IV fluids containing electrolytes. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are given to prevent and control infection and keep patients comfortable. Anti-nausea medications are also used to control vomiting that exacerbates the problems.

Even with aggressive treatment, Parvo can be fatal. The best way to protect your dog is to get them vaccinated. CPV is part of a vaccine series that is given to puppies at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Once fully vaccinated, dogs will require regular boosters to maintain their immunity. Until the complete vaccination series is complete, caution should be used when taking puppies to places where dogs gather. This includes doggy daycare, groomers, lodging facilities, parks, pet shops and obedience classes.

Parvo is a serious and highly contagious disease. Understanding how Parvo spreads, its symptoms, the treatment options available, and the best ways to prevent Parvo will help you keep your puppy safe. For more information about Parvo, please call us to talk to one of our licensed technicians.