What is canine parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious, potentially deadly disease that is caused by a virus that attacks the stomach and intestines of all canines including puppies, dogs, coyotes, wolves and foxes. Occasionally the disease may also infect the heart tissue causing death. Young, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated dogs and puppies are at the greatest risk. However, any dog can become infected with the disease. On rare occasions, a completely vaccinated pet can contract parvovirus if his or her immune system has not responded properly to the vaccination. There are two types of canine parvovirus: CPV1 and CPV2. CPV2 is responsible for causing the most serious disease affects in all canine populations. There are several variants of the CPV2 known as CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c. CPV-2c is a newly emerged strain and has been identified in the US, Asia and parts of Europe, but the current CPV vaccine still provides adequate protection against the CPV-2c.

How is canine parvovirus transmitted?

The virus is shed in stool and can remain infectious in contaminated areas for months, even through freezing temperatures. It can be transmitted from dog to dog through stool, contaminated areas, and even on clothing or shoes. This virus is highly contagious, and extreme caution needs to be taken when handling and/or caring for an infected pet.

What are the symptoms of canine parvovirus?

The hallmarks of canine parvovirus are vomiting and diarrhea. Depression, fever, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, decreased water intake, weakness, weight loss, and other abnormalities can accompany this serious infection. Severe bloody diarrhea or vomiting can easily lead to fatal dehydration, blood loss and intestinal damage. Damaged intestines can allow entry of deadly bacterial toxins into the body. This serious disease requires immediate veterinary treatment.

How will my veterinarian diagnose my pet?

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, examination findings, laboratory tests, and response to treatment. X-rays are sometimes necessary as well. Treatment depends on the type, severity, and duration of the disease. Antibiotics, dewormers, intestinal medications, fluid and electrolyte therapy, and special diets are needed as appropriate. Many pets require intensive intravenous treatments and may remain hospitalized for days. Even with the best possible care, some critically ill patients will die.

Is my puppy at risk?

Puppies, like children, receive immunity (protection) against diseases from nursing shortly after birth. When a mother dog is vaccinated, her puppies receive protection against those diseases, including parvovirus, for 4-8 weeks after birth. Since the exact length of protection depends on many factors and is difficult to determine, starting vaccinations at 6-8 wks of age is generally recommended. Any unvaccinated dog or dog that has not completed its series of vaccines is at risk, although most serious cases occur in puppies less than 1 year of age. The severity of the disease depends on many factors, and is complicated by other diseases, including intestinal worms. Any puppy suspected of having clinical signs of canine parvovirus should be tested immediately.