What is Parvo?

Parvovirus is a viral disease of dogs which first appeared around 1978. Parvo is often seen in dogs with a weakened immune system, often due to intestinal parasites (worms). The disease is caused by a highly contagious virus that is transmitted by dogs through contact with infected feces. 

Puppies are more frequently affected than adult dogs but it can affect both if not properly vaccinated. Most dogs are infected between the ages of 2-6 months when maternal antibodies decrease below a protective level. Parvo attacks the intestinal lining and kills healthy cells. In very young puppies it can infect the heart muscle and lead to sudden death. 

In commercial kennels where most petshop puppies are bred, parvo is not often a risk.  Most commercial kennels licensed by USDA set up a strict vaccination schedule.  Vaccines are their "insurance" to protect their business.  Just one parvo case in a commercial kennel with hundreds of dogs can completely devastate the kennel.  This does not mean your puppy is safe.  A puppy is most susceptible during the time shortly after weaning until 16 weeks of age.  It is essential that you know the signs and prevention of the disease.

For some reason unbeknownst to researchers some black and tan breeds such as Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds and some black Labradors seem to be more susceptible to this disease. Cocker Spaniels and Toy Poodles seem to be at a reduced risk. 

What are the symptoms of Parvo?

Generally it takes 7-10 days after exposure for dogs and puppies to start showing symptoms and to test positive for Parvo. Parvo attacks the lining of the digestive system and causes dogs and puppies to not be able to absorb nutrients or liquids resulting usually in diarrhea, vomiting and lethargy. In most cases the dog or puppy will stop eating and develop a bloody, foul smelling liquid stool.

Symptoms usually begin with a high fever, lethargy, depression and loss of appetite. Secondary symptoms are severe gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and bloody diarrhea. In many cases, dehydration, shock and death follow. Parvo can also attack a dog’s heart and can cause congestive heart failure, sometimes months or years after apparent recovery from this disease. Puppies who survive Parvo are usually somewhat unhealthy and weak for the rest of their lives.

It is important to note that many puppy guarantees from petshops are less than the 10 day incubation period of the disease.  In most cases if you your puppy becomes ill with parvo within 10 days of you buying it, that contamination took place at the petshop, brokers or breeders.  Sadly, this devastating disease can cost thousands to treat and in many cases the store warranty has expired before you puppy is diagnosed.  It is important to see a vet at the first sign of concern.

How do I keep my dog from getting Parvo?

It can be difficult to successfully vaccinate a puppy against Parvo because the antibody protection the puppy acquires from it’s mother will interfere. It is recommended that puppies be vaccinated every three to four weeks for this virus starting at 6 weeks of age and continuing until they are at least 16 weeks and preferably 20 weeks old. Puppies should not be exposed to other dogs or the feces of other dogs until this series of vaccinations is complete. 

If your dog becomes infected he/she is shedding the virus in their feces and it is extremely contagious to other dogs. Here are some things you can do to prevent the spread of this disease.

1.· Keep the infected dog away from all other dogs for at least a month after full recovery

2. Clean up all the dog’s feces from your yard.

3. Use bleach/water mixture to clean everything the dog may have come in contact with such as food/water bowls, bedding, kennels, crates, etc… 

4. Spray your yard with the bleach/water mixture. Better to kill your grass than your next dog or your neighbor's dog.

5. If you have any other dogs that are two years old or younger, or who have never been vaccinated for Parvo, take them in to the vet for a booster as soon as possible.

6. Be sure to feed your dog a bland diet until he is fully recovered. When switching back to his normal diet be sure and mix the regular food with the bland diet gradually.

7. Parvo can live up to six months or longer in your home or yard. Before introducing another dog into your household you will want to have a vet do a titer test to check the new addition's immunity to Parvo.

What do I do if I think my dog has Parvo?

Dogs with Parvo need immediate veterinary care because they are usually very sick. They should not be treated at home if they are significantly ill. This is a very serious disease. Some puppies infected with Parvovirus will die despite prompt and adequate treatment. Without intense treatment the victims of Parvo die of dehydration. There is no cure. Veterinarians can only treat the symptoms and try to keep the dog alive by preventing dehydration and loss of proteins. 

How is Parvo diagnosed?

This disease is diagnosed through a physical examination and a fecal Parvo test. Blood work may be required since Parvo causes a low white blood cell count and may be a telling sign. Radiographs may also be required to rule out other causes of vomiting and diarrhea..