Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a serious and highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects young, unvaccinated dogs. This virus can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, and in some cases, it can be fatal. While it most commonly strikes puppies between six and twenty weeks old, older dogs may also be affected. In this blog, we’ll explain what parvovirus is, how it spreads, its symptoms, and how you can prevent it from affecting your beloved pet.

What is Canine Parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastrointestinal (GI) illness in dogs, particularly in puppies that are not yet fully vaccinated. It is most often seen in dogs between the ages of 6 weeks to 6 months, with young, unvaccinated, or incompletely vaccinated dogs being most at risk.

Certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to parvovirus, including:

• Rottweilers
• Doberman Pinschers
• American Pit Bull Terriers
• English Springer Spaniels
• German Shepherds

How Does Parvovirus Spread?

Canine parvovirus can be found in nearly any environment where infected dogs have been, but not every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. Several factors influence whether a dog becomes infected, including their immune status and the amount of virus they are exposed to.

The virus is shed in the faeces of infected dogs, often within 4-5 days of exposure and before symptoms appear. It can also continue to be shed throughout the period of illness and for up to 10 days after recovery. Dogs can become infected through:

• Direct contact with infected faeces or nasal discharge.
• Indirect contact through contaminated surfaces, equipment, or people that have been exposed to the virus.

Symptoms of Parvovirus

The symptoms of parvovirus can be severe and should be taken very seriously. Common signs include:

• Lethargy
• Depression
• Loss or lack of appetite
• Sudden onset of fever
• Acute vomiting
• Diarrhoea (which may or may not contain blood)

If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s crucial to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and care.

Diagnosing Canine Parvovirus

If your dog displays the symptoms listed above and is unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated, parvovirus should be suspected. A veterinarian can diagnose the virus based on:

• Signalment and history (e.g., age and vaccination status)
• Clinical signs
• Faecal parvoviral antigen testing (a snap test to confirm the presence of the virus)

Treatment for Parvovirus

The treatment for parvovirus involves supportive care aimed at managing symptoms. While some dogs may recover with outpatient care, many will require intensive hospitalization, especially if they show severe symptoms. Early detection and treatment are crucial, as puppies can succumb to the virus if care is delayed.

A typical treatment plan may include:

• Intravenous fluids to rehydrate the dog and replace fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea.
• Diagnostic tests like blood work and imaging to monitor the dog’s condition.
• Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections from intestinal bacteria entering the bloodstream.
• Medications to control nausea and diarrhoea.

In many cases, dogs who recover from parvovirus will develop lifelong immunity to that particular strain of the virus.

Prevention: The Best Defence Against Parvovirus

The best way to protect your dog from parvovirus is by ensuring they receive the full course of vaccinations. At Vitalvet, we use the highly effective MSD DP Plus vaccine, which is safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks of age. Following the recommended vaccination schedule is essential to keep your dog protected from this dangerous virus.

Key Takeaways:

• Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes severe GI illness in young, unvaccinated dogs.
• Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea (with or without blood), and a loss of appetite.
• Diagnosis is made through clinical signs and faecal parvoviral antigen testing.
• Treatment involves supportive care, including fluids, medications, and sometimes antibiotics.
• Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date to prevent this potentially deadly disease.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s vaccination status or suspect they might have been exposed to parvovirus, don’t wait—contact your veterinarian right away. At Vitalvet, we are here to help keep your four-legged friends healthy and happy!

Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your dog from parvovirus. Contact us for more information about vaccinations or to schedule an appointment! Visit our website at www.vitalvet.co.za for contact details of a Vitalvet branch near you.