Parvo in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention Every Owner Should Know
Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious and infectious virus caused by canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). It is more commonly known as parvo, parvovirus or CPV. There are several strains of CPV 2 but essentially, they all produce similar signs and symptoms. It is wise for dog owners to understand a little about parvo and its severity, as it is a distressing disease and often fatal, leaving pet parents and families upset and traumatized by its vicious effects. While preventive measures are available, knowing the causes, signs and seeking help immediately can make the difference between life and death.
What is parvo, and how does it affect dogs?
This virus attacks the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and immune system of dogs. It damages the lining of the intestinal tract, leading to an inability to absorb nutrients and fluids, resulting in your dog or puppy becoming dehydrated and exceptionally weak.
Any dog of any age can be affected by the virus, although the following groups are at higher risk of contracting the disease:
Puppies between 6–20 weeks old.
Unvaccinated dogs of any age.
Certain breeds, for example, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Bull Terriers, English Springer.Spaniels and German Shepherds.
Dogs with weakened immune systems due to illness, poor nutrition or medications.
Causes and transmission of parvo
Parvo spreads through direct contact with other infected dogs, with their feces (poop), bodily fluids, vomit, or everyday objects such as kennels, food and water bowls, collars, leashes, grooming tools or the hands and clothing of anyone who’s handled an infected dog. Humans who have stepped on/in the virus outside can also transport it around via the sole of their shoes. Wild canines, stray dogs, and domestic dogs can all unknowingly pass the bug along, too. It is a tough virus with the ability to survive extreme temperatures (hot or cold) and can withstand humidity and dryness for months at a time.
Even a tiny trace of feces from an infected dog can carry enough of the virus to make another dog sick; therefore, thorough cleaning and proper disinfection are so important and vital.
If your dog is suspected or confirmed to have parvo, they must be kept away from all other dogs with immediate effect. Disinfect all areas they’ve been in using products proven to kill parvo virus. Follow strict hygiene steps to prevent further spread. Your veterinarian can guide you on the exact cleaning protocols, products and precautions you should take to protect other pets at home and the community.
Signs of parvo
Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are the two groups most susceptible, the most common signs which can be seen (in any dog) include:
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Depression
Vomiting
Severe, often bloody diarrhea
Foul-smelling diarrhea (due to the blood content)
Abdominal pain and bloating
Fever or low body temperature
Collapse
Death
Diagnosis and treatment of Parvo
Diagnosis
A vet can suspect infection of the virus by the signs and symptoms the dog is exhibiting, their history, age and breed, but an official diagnosis will be obtained by a fecel test in the laboratory. Blood tests may also be performed to test the white blood cell count and hydration levels.
Treatment
Unfortunately, no medication can directly kill canine parvovirus. Instead, treatment focuses on supporting your dog’s body, so their immune system has the best chance of fighting off the infection.
Typical parvo treatment may include:
Hospitalization: Most dogs with parvo need to stay at the hospital for 5–7 days to be closely monitored, often in isolation units.
Intravenous fluids: An IV drip provides essential fluids to prevent or correct dehydration, which is one of the biggest dangers of parvo.
Pain relief: As parvo is a painful process various pain relief medication will be given
Anti-vomiting medication: Helps control nausea, vomiting and prevent further fluid loss.
Antibiotics: If your dog develops a secondary bacterial infection due to their weakened immune system, your vet may prescribe antibiotics.
Feeding tubes: These will be placed to supplement nutrition as dogs with parvo often do not eat.
Strict Isolation Is Essential! Dogs and puppies with parvo must be kept separate from other animals. At the vet clinic, staff wear special gowns, gloves, and shoe covers when caring for infected dogs, and these items are removed or sanitised before leaving the isolation area.
Prognosis
The sooner parvo is diagnosed and treated, the better your dog’s chances of survival. Sadly, despite the best care and intentions, many puppies and adult dogs do not make it.
Most deaths from canine parvovirus occur within 48 to 72 hours after the signs appear. Prompt veterinary attention is absolutely critical. Treatment and care can be costly as well, as dogs generally require several days in the hospital with round-the-clock monitoring. The most effective and far less expensive way to protect your dog is through vaccination. Preventing the disease is always better than trying to fight it!
How can I prevent my dog from catching parvo?
Vaccination is the single most effective way to prevent parvo. Talk to your vet as soon as you acquire your puppy or dog, whether they are young, middle-aged or senior, they can start a suitable vaccination program right away to prevent them catching this awful virus. Don’t forget, staying on top of their vaccines going forward is also required.
You can also help by cleaning and maintaining proper control of the environment around you. For example:
The virus is resistant to many common cleaners, but bleach (1:30 dilution) is highly effective, or use one as directed by your vet.
Disinfect all items and areas your dog encounters, including floors, crates, bowls, and outdoor spaces.
Until your dog is fully vaccinated, avoid public outings, dog parks, pet stores, and boarding facilities, contact with other dogs, and keep walks to low-traffic areas or your yard.
Parvo is a fast-acting, deadly and horrible disease, but it’s also highly preventable. Vaccination and hygiene practices drastically reduce the risk, and recognising the signs of infection early, and seeking veterinary help immediately all help in the fight against the virus. Protecting your dog from parvo isn’t just about one pet and your animals; it helps safeguard the entire canine community. If you are unsure if your dog is vaccinated, have a chat with your vet who can advise the best plan for your dog!
Annaliese Morgan
Annaliese qualified as a veterinary nurse from Edinburgh and went on to attain a diploma in advanced veterinary nursing in surgery from London. Throughout this time, she worked in both small and mixed veterinary practices and gained head nurse status. Responsible for training other veterinary nurses she also ran the nursing department, nurse clinics, and patient care protocols.
She has looked after 1,000s of patients and owners and created new higher standard nursing regimes, whilst specializing in surgery and anesthesia. After being asked to co-author multiple veterinary nursing textbooks, Annaliese continued to write for further mainstream publications in the UK and USA and after twenty-plus years in both the veterinary and pet care professions, she hung up her scrub suit and now writes full-time.