Our First Blog: Parvovirus

Parvovirus: What is this disease and how do you treat it?

Canine Parvovirus (CPV), commonly known as “parvo,” is part of the Parvoviridae family of viruses. Parvovirus can attack either the gastrointestinal tract (CPV-2) or the cardiac muscles (CPV-1). Since its emergence in the late 1970s, CPV-2 caused a global pandemic and has been detected in Europe, Oceania, Asia and the Americas. It was discovered that the virus arose from a mutation of the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), which infects cats.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that occurs in unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs, which is why it commonly infects puppies. After a puppy is born he/she has acquired immunity which serves as a temporary immune protection until the puppy develops antibodies from vaccination or exposure.  The acquired immune system is primarily obtained via ingestion of colostrum within the first few hours of life and some antibodies are also transferred transplacentally in utero. 

Dogs contract the virus by means of direct contact with either an infected dog, or via secondary means such as contaminated fomites or fecal matter. It is a hardy virus that can persist in the environment for an extended period of time.

Clinical signs of infection can include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood) and lethargy. The gastrointestinal signs are due to infection of the epithelium of the small intestine which compromises the integrity of the intestines and allows translocation of intestinal bacteria into the bloodstream, resulting in sepsis. 

Treatment of infected dogs requires intensive care at a 24-hour animal hospital with an isolation ward. Treatment is supportive and includes intravenous fluids, plasma transfusion, broad-spectrum antibiotics, anti-vomiting and pain medications. Sadly, the virus can sometimes be fatal despite aggressive therapy and is 100% fatal when untreated. 

Prevention with vaccination and taking precautions with vulnerable puppies can help minimize the risks. If you have any questions about parvovirus prevention or would like to schedule an appointment for vaccination, please call us at 516-624-7387.