A Comprehensive Guide to Parvovirus in Dogs
Welcoming a new puppy into the family brings a joy that is simply unmatched. However, it brings along the responsibility of protecting them from potential diseases.
Flea and tick infestations are easily recognizable as these parasites are visible to the naked eye, allowing you to take prompt action. There are varied bacteria and viruses that can cause deadly infections without being noticed until the symptoms surface. Parvovirus infection is one such virus that is highly contagious and difficult to distinguish as the symptoms are more or less similar to common viral infections and it can be fatal if no appropriate treatment is provided.
In this blog, we’ll cover the common symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures of Parvovirus. This information will prepare you and help you better care for your canine friend.
Let’s start with the fundamentals!
What is Parvovirus in Dogs?
Parvovirus in dogs, also known as Canine Parvovirus, CPV, or Parvo, was first discovered in the 1970s. Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) causes a DNA virus. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow, impacting the white blood cells. It can also affect and damage the heart in puppies.
Parvovirus is highly contagious and has several variants such as CPV-2, CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c, among which CPV-2 and CPV-2c are considered the most dangerous. It is also speculated that Canine Parvovirus is a mutation of feline panleukopenia, as the two diseases are almost identical.
Puppies, unvaccinated, or poorly vaccinated dogs are highly susceptible to CPV infection. Plus, the virus incubates for about a week, so an infected puppy or dog won’t show immediate symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Parvovirus in Dogs
Generally, the symptoms of Canine Parvovirus vary in different dogs, depending on the severity of the infection. Various stages of the disease reflect common symptoms.
The early signs of CPV infection include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
In the next stage, your dog may exhibit:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
In severe conditions, your dog may experience:
- Difficulty in breathing
- High heart rate
- Blood in stool
- Hypothermia
Causes of Canine Parvovirus
CPV is not an airborne virus, plus, unlike most viruses, it is resistant to detergents, heat, alcohol, and disinfectants. Its stability in the environment allows it to live on varied surfaces and transfer via:
- Direct contact with contaminated or infected stool
- Direct contact with an infected dog
- Contaminated surfaces that contain the virus
- Contaminated food or shared utensils
- Unwashed hands or clothes of people who came into contact with infected dogs
- Infected accessories such as leashes, collars, etc.
Canine Parvovirus Lifecycle
Diagnosis and Treatment of Parvovirus in Dogs
When you visit the vet initially they will suspect the CPV infection based on the symptoms your dog is showing. They will further diagnose the feces to confirm the presence of Parvovirus.
Researchers commonly use the fecal ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) for testing. It is a convenient test that takes around 15 minutes to complete. While the fecal ELISA test is highly reliable, it may sometimes produce false positive or negative results, which requires further testing.
Veterinarians may also use polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which requires a fecal sample for the investigation. It detects small pieces of CPV viral DNA. This test is more accurate and allows the veterinarian to forge a suitable treatment plan.
Treatment
Parvovirus attacks the stomach lining of the intestinal tract and bone marrow, resulting in severe dehydration, weakening of the immune system, and infection in the bloodstream. The treatment of CPV infection revolves around addressing these conditions and providing support to improve the condition because there is no specific cure that works to kill the virus.
Thus, the treatment will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. The general support care includes:
- Hospital stay with intravenous fluids and nutrients
- Appropriate treatment to control nausea and diarrhea
- Addressing the electrolyte imbalance or low blood glucose
- Blood transfusions to improve low blood cell counts
Preventive measures
The ideal prevention against Parvovirus is vaccination. Young puppies are highly susceptible to the Parvovirus. To protect them, veterinarians usually recommend CPV vaccination along with a combination shot, including distemper, canine adenovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines.
These shots are recommended to be given at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. To maintain protection, an additional booster will be required 18 – 22 weeks after the initial series of vaccinations. Then, the next booster vaccine will be required every 3 years. Consult your vet to get the best-suited vaccination program for your dog.
Apart from the vaccinations, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene as the CPV virus is hardy and can survive on varied surfaces. Make sure to:
- Maintain good hygiene and keep the environment clean
- Avoid contact with known infected dogs and their surroundings
- Keep your dog away from the feces of other dogs
- Consult a vet regularly
- Clean and properly dispose of your dog’s feces
Key Takeaways
The above article covered everything there is to know about Parvovirus infection in dogs. Keep in mind the symptoms and preventive measures to provide better assistance to your doggo and help them in their moment of distress. Happy pet parenting!
