Canine Parvovirus, also commonly called CPV or parvo, is the most prevalent, infectious canine disease in the United States. It is highly contagious and often deadly, particularly because current vaccines do not protect against all strains.

As a dog owner, it is therefore important that you know about the disease, how it is spread, what the symptoms are, and what action to take if you think your dog may have contracted it.

CPV is most common in younger dogs and puppies, as the opportunistic virus targets their underdeveloped immune systems. However adult dogs can also get it, with breeds like Dobermans, Rottweilers and Labradors particularly susceptible.

The first warning signs that your dog may have parvo will include, general lethargy, depression and lack of interest in activities, loss of appetite and a high temperature. The dog may also vomit, and develop diarrhea which will be yellowish in color and particularly foul smelling.

As the condition worsens the dog will become dehydrated and may go into shock. The virus may also infect the heart and cause heart failure. In fact, heart failure can occur years after the dog has had a parvovirus infection.

The most common form of the disease is enteritis. This attacks the digestive system, damaging the lining of the stomach and intestines and making it impossible for the body to process nutrients and fluids. The dog will develop chronic diarrhea with blood in the stool and will inevitably die, if not treated.

Even dogs that survive CPV tend to be sickly throughout their lives.

There is currently no known cure for parvo. Veterinary treatment will mainly be concerned with stabilizing the dog’s condition by delivering fluids and a balanced electrolyte solution intravenously. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to take care of secondary bacterial infections.

If the dog has severe symptoms, an antiserum may also be administered, while corticosteroids are usually given to dogs that are in shock.

One reason why CPV is so dangerous is that the virus is incredibly resilient. It is transmitted through coming into contact with the faeces of an infected animal. Even after the faeces is removed the virus can survive in the ground for up to 6 months.

It withstands most household cleaners and commercial disinfectants, although undiluted chlorine bleach has prove to be effective in killing it.

The best way to prevent parvo is to ensure that your puppy is vaccinated. The vaccine is not completely effective, but it dramatically increases a dog’s resistance to the disease.

You should also not allow your puppy to play or otherwise interact with dogs you are not familiar with. In fact, keep your puppy confined to your premises until he has completed his course of puppy shots.

Discover more about parvovirus in dogs, dog care, dog training and other interesting dog advice at www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Bookmark to: