Canine Parvovirus Infection

What is Parvovirus Infection?

Canine Parvovirus, or Parvo, is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks the intestinal tract, white blood cells, and sometimes the heart muscle of dogs. CPV can only be transmitted to dogs and other canids, not to other types of animals or people. The source of CPV transmission is the fecal waste from infected dogs. The virus is resistant to extremes in environmental conditions and can survive outside of a dog’s body for long periods of time.

CPV is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of infected dogs, or by contaminated cages, food, shoes, clothing, or other objects that have come into contact with the virus.

How can I tell if a dog has CPV Infection?

Signs of CPV include depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and at times fluid feces streaked with blood. Adult dogs that have been vaccinated for the virus are not at risk for contracting CPV; however, puppies that are exposed are extremely vulnerable. Because CPV attacks the intestines and is accompanied by severe vomiting and diarrhea, puppies will dehydrate quickly and can suffer shock-like deaths associated with the virus as early as two days after its onset.

Treatment

There is no cure for the Parvovirus infection; however, veterinarians can treat symptoms by combating dehydration and providing antibiotics to treat and prevent secondary infections that arise as a result of the dog’s weakened state. Our best weapon against CPV is prevention. All puppies should begin receiving vaccinations for CPV at 4 to 6 weeks of age. Adult dogs should receive an annual booster for the virus over the course of their lives. Any dog or puppy demonstrating signs of illness should be taken to the veterinarian as soon as possible.