Parvovirus in Dogs
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease that primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
What Is Parvovirus?
Parvovirus attacks rapidly dividing cells, particularly in the intestines and bone marrow, leading to severe gastrointestinal symptoms and immune suppression. It spreads through direct contact with infected dogs, contaminated environments, or objects such as food bowls, floors, and human hands.
Signs Your Dog May Have Parvovirus
Parvovirus symptoms typically appear within 3-7 days of exposure and can include:
🐾 Severe, often bloody diarrhoea
🐾 Vomiting
🐾 Lethargy and weakness
🐾 Loss of appetite
🐾 Fever
🐾 Dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, skin tenting)
🐾 Puppies with parvovirus can deteriorate quickly, so early intervention is critical.
If your dog shows any of these signs, urgently seek vet care!
What Causes Parvovirus?
Parvovirus is caused by a highly resistant virus that spreads through:
🐾 Direct Contact – Interaction with infected dogs or their faeces.
🐾 Contaminated Environments – The virus can survive for months on surfaces such as floors, parks, soil, and kennels.
🐾 Shared Items – Food bowls, toys, bedding, and even human clothing can carry the virus.
🐾 Lack of Vaccination – Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are at the highest risk.
When to See a Vet
Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog has symptoms of parvovirus, especially vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Early treatment significantly improves survival rates. Delayed treatment can result in life-threatening dehydration and septic shock.
Professional Parvovirus Treatment at My Corner Vet
There is no specific antiviral cure for parvovirus, but aggressive supportive care increases survival chances. Treatment may include:
Isolation
To prevent spreading the virus to other dogs.
Nutritional Support
Dogs with parvovirus often require feeding support until they can eat independently.
Antibiotics
To prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Antiemetics & Pain Relief
To manage vomiting, nausea, and discomfort.
Hospitalisation
Intensive care with IV fluids, electrolytes, and glucose to combat dehydration.
How to Prevent Parvovirus in Dogs
You can reduce the risk by:
🐾 Vaccination – Ensure puppies receive their full course of parvovirus vaccines at 6-8, 10-12, and 14-16 weeks, followed by regular boosters.
🐾 Avoid High-Risk Areas – Until fully vaccinated, keep puppies away from dog parks, kennels, and public spaces.
🐾 Practice Good Hygiene – Disinfect contaminated areas and wash hands after handling other dogs.
🐾 Isolate Infected Dogs – If one dog in a household contracts parvovirus, keep them separated from others.
🐾 Deworming & Nutrition – A healthy immune system helps reduce the severity of infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, but it is more severe in puppies. Vaccinated adult dogs are at lower risk but can still contract and spread the virus.
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The virus can survive for months to years in soil, kennels, and on surfaces, requiring strong disinfectants like bleach to eliminate it.
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No, canine parvovirus does not infect humans. However, humans can spread it to dogs via contaminated hands or clothing.
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Dogs can continue shedding the virus in their feces for up to 6 weeks after recovery, so strict hygiene measures should be maintained.
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Recovered dogs typically develop immunity, but in rare cases, reinfection can occur. Vaccination remains essential.
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