Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus infection (often referred to simply as “parvo”) is a highly contagious viral infection that can affect dogs of all ages.  The disease can be readily spread between dogs via contact with the feces of an infected dog or a contaminated environment.  The virus itself is very stable and can remain infective for several months if the environment is not properly disinfected.  Puppies and younger dogs are more susceptible to canine parvovirus infections, especially if they did not receive appropriate protective vaccinations.  In addition, there is an increased occurrence of canine parvovirus infections during the summer months.

Clinical Signs:

Parvovirus most commonly infects the gastrointestinal system and severely damages the lining of the intestinal tract.  Typically the result is the rapid onset of severe diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and decreased appetite, which can rapidly lead to severe dehydration, systemic shock, and death.  In fact, death can occur as soon as 2-3 days following the onset of illness.  Younger dogs are particularly susceptible to severe illness and death when infected with parvovirus. 

Treatment:

Infected dogs typically become severely ill and require aggressive treatment.  There are no effective treatments available that fight the virus itself, so the goals of treatment are largely to provide appropriate supportive care, which typically includes:

 

• Fluid therapy, to prevent/treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Medications to treat vomiting and diarrhea
• Antibiotic therapy to prevent secondary bacterial infections
• Nutritional support and other supportive care

 

Because parvovirus is spread through the feces of infected dogs, it is very important for potentially contaminated areas to be promptly cleaned up and disinfected.  Because the virus can be difficult to kill, it is best to consult with your veterinarian for advice on how to best clean and disinfect potentially contaminated environments.  In addition, infected dogs should be isolated from other dogs to prevent disease transmission.

Prevention:

The key to preventing parvovirus infections in dogs of all ages is to make sure they are appropriately vaccinated against this disease.  However, not all parvovirus vaccines are created equally.  Many of the parvovirus vaccines available at retail stores (i.e., at farm supply and pet supply stores) do not provide sufficient protection (immunity) against the most common variants of parvovirus.  Therefore, it is always best to follow the vaccination recommendations provided by your veterinarian.  Because of their increased susceptibility, it is especially critical that all puppies receive a sufficient parvovirus vaccination series from a licensed veterinarian.  The cost of keeping your dog’s vaccinations current is insignificant in comparison to the high cost of treating your dog if it becomes infected with parvovirus.

With summer already in full swing, this is an excellent time to check with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog is protected against this costly and potentially deadly disease.

Waynedale Animal Clinic                

6221 Bluffton Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46809
(260) 747-4196

Dr. Hugh S. Glidewell

Dr. Andrew W. Riebe

www.waynedaleanimalclinic.com

 

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