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Canine Parvovirus
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 CPV2a, 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?
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.
The hallmarks of canine parvovirus are vomiting
and diarrhea. Depression, fever, abdominal pain,
decreased appetite, decreased water intake,
For additional information, please contact your Banfield medical team.