What is parvo?

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious disease. When dogs contract CPV, the virus attacks their GI tract and white blood cells. CPV can often be fatal in young puppies because the virus can also damage their heart muscle. 

Parvovirus in dogs can be a scary diagnosis. Even saying the word trigger a shudder from seasoned dog parents. But the disease isn’t a death sentence. With intense veterinary care, some dogs can survive this virus. 

Parvo Symptoms & Signs

Keep an eye out for parvo symptoms. The earlier you detect it, the easier it is to treat and the faster your pup can recover. Parvo symptoms vary from dog to dog, but these are the most common signs: 

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Bloody or severe diarrhea 
• Loss of appetite
• Fever or below-average body temperature
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain 
• Depression

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your vet right away. They will run appropriate tests to determine if it’s CPV or not. 

How do dogs get parvo? 

How do dogs get parvo in the first place? Since CPV is highly contagious, it passes in a few different ways. 

Direct contact with a parvo-infected dog is the most common transmission method. But dogs can also get the virus when they interact with any surfaces, toys, or stool from a parvo pup. Vet offices, doggy day cares, and boarding facilities usually sanitize their supplies to prevent the spread of parvo in dogs. 

CPV can also attach to our clothes and skin. That’s just one reason vet techs and groomers wash their hands after interacting with dogs. If you pet another dog that you’re not familiar with, wash your hands to avoid accidentally spreading the virus to your pup. 

Is parvovirus fatal for dogs?

Unfortunately, severe parvovirus in dogs can be fatal. There’s no way to kill the virus once contracted. The virus will attack the dog’s white blood cells and GI tract. This weakens their immune system and causes severe dehydration. 

Parvo in dogs also causes electrolyte imbalance and bloodstream infection. When CPV infects a dog’s bloodstream, the consequences can be fatal. The infection allows GI bacteria to enter the bloodstream and wreak internal havoc. The symptoms are just too much for most dogs to fight off, and they can pass away as a result. 

When puppies get parvo, it’s more complicated. CPV is a tough virus to fight and their little bodies might not have enough strength to do so. As a result, puppies often die after contracting the virus. 

When a dog gets CPV, death isn’t always the outcome. If you suspect your dog has this virus, it’s crucial to contact your vet as soon as possible.

Treatment for Parvo in Dogs

With the help of a vet, parvovirus can be treated. Most vets will admit parvo pups to an animal hospital for 24/7 surveillance. 

The best way to treat parvo is to prevent further fluid loss. In the hospital, they will likely receive an IV drip to rehydrate. Some vets will administer antibiotics to prevent bloodstream infection. Antinausea medication can also help dogs from further vomiting and diarrhea.

In severe circumstances, dogs may require a blood transfusion. When parvo infects a dog’s bone marrow, it kills off white blood cells and lowers their immunity. A transfusion can increase blood cell count to fight off further infection. 

Since parvo is life-threatening, it can be expensive to treat. Do what’s best for you and your dog. Ask your vet every question that comes to mind. You should be comfortable with your dog’s parvo treatment plan. 

What kind of dogs are more likely to get parvo?

Any dog can contract parvo, but some are more susceptible to the virus than others. Puppies between 6 and 20 weeks are likely to die from CPV infection. Partially vaccinated or completely unvaccinated dogs are less likely to fend off parvo, as well. 

Some breeds are more susceptible to infection when they come into contact with a CPV strain. If you have any of the following breeds, parvo prevention is crucial: 

• Labrador Retriever
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Rottweiler
• Doberman Pinscher
• Bull Terrier breeds
• German Shepherd
• English Springer Spaniel  

How Dog Parents Can Prevent Parvo

Parvovirus isn’t your average common cold. CPV is cruel, strong, and fatal in some cases. Every dog parent should actively prevent parvo to avoid infecting their furry friend or someone else’s. 

Vaccinations

The best way to prevent parvo in dogs is to stay up to date with vaccinations. Puppies usually receive routine parvo vaccinations at 8, 12, and 16 weeks old. Vets often administer a booster shot every 3 years for older dogs. 

Disinfect Dog Supplies

Avoid using pre-owned dog supplies that haven’t been thoroughly cleaned. CPV is a tough virus to kill and can stick to leashes, collars, bowls, toys, beds, and crates. Bleach-based cleaners can deactivate parvovirus. Cleanse carefully, as bleach can be toxic to dogs.

Be Wary

You don’t have to quarantine yourself and your dog to avoid parvovirus. Do be careful when exposing your dog to new places or pups. Before choosing a boarding facility, ask the staff about their cleaning and parvo prevention methods. Your pup can still socialize at the dog park, just avoid drinking from the dirty communal water bowl.