As a loving dog owner, your puppy or adult dog’s health and safety are your top concerns. Vaccinations are your wagging friend’s main protection against infectious diseases. One such disease is canine parvovirus (CPV), a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease that primarily affects dogs. First identified in the 1970s, CPV is now one of the most significant viral threats to dogs worldwide. Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team delves into the virus, its transmission, signs, and prevention strategies to ensure your furry friend’s good health. 

What is canine parvovirus?

CPV belongs to the Parvoviridae viral family. The virus is a small, linear, single-stranded DNA genome that primarily targets rapidly dividing cells. Puppies and young dogs are especially vulnerable, because their cells are actively dividing as they develop their immune system. However, any unvaccinated dog can contract this dangerous disease. 

How is canine parvovirus transmitted?

CPV is highly contagious and spreads through direct or indirect contact with infected feces. The virus is exceptionally hardy and can survive in the environment for months. CPV also can spread quickly in multi-dog households and where animals are kept in close quarters, such as a shelter. Common transmission pathways include:

  • Direct contact — Healthy dogs contact infected dogs. 
  • Fomites — Infection is transmitted from contaminated objects, such as food bowls, leashes, and bedding. 
  • Human transmission — People who have handled infected dogs or their feces can spread the disease from their hands, shoes, or clothing. 

What are parvovirus signs in dogs?

CPV signs usually appear three to seven days after exposure. Signs can be severe and include:

  • Gastrointestinal distress — CPV most commonly affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and causes vomiting, severe, often bloody diarrhea, anorexia, and dehydration.
  • Lethargy — Dogs become dehydrated and then weak and lethargic. 
  • Fever — Dogs with parvovirus often have an elevated body temperature.
  • Septic shock — In severe cases, if not treated promptly, the virus can cause septic shock and death.

How is canine parvovirus diagnosed?

Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team diagnoses CPV using a combination of clinical signs and diagnostic tests. Our veterinarian will evaluate your dog, looking for clinical signs based on their age, health signs, and vaccination history. Our team will perform blood tests, most commonly an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test on fecal samples, to check if the virus is present. We may also perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and blood tests for confirmation.

How is parvovirus in dogs treated?

While no specific antiviral treatment is available for CPV, we can manage the disease with supportive care that will include: 

  • Fluid therapy — To treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances caused by vomiting and diarrhea
  • Nutritional support — Intravenous (IV) or tube feeding, because your dog likely is not eating
  • Medications — Anti-nausea drugs and antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections and alleviate pain
  • Isolation — Quarantining to prevent the virus from spreading to other household dogs

Recently, a monoclonal antibody treatment was approved to treat canine parvovirus. The one-dose intravenous injection has shown great promise in helping resolve this dangerous disease.

How do I protect my dog from parvovirus?

CPV is so severe that prevention is imperative. Preventing disease includes:

  • Vaccination — The CPV vaccine is highly effective and is a core vaccine recommended for all dogs. Puppies should receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every three to four weeks until 16 weeks of age, and then regular boosters throughout their lives. Our veterinarian will provide you with the required vaccine schedule during your dog’s wellness exam.
  • Hygiene — Disinfecting contaminated areas and objects with bleach solutions can help reduce transmission risk. Limiting exposure to potentially infected dogs and environments is also crucial, and you must not take your puppy to a dog park or other high-risk area until they are fully vaccinated.

CPV is a significant threat to canine health, particularly among puppies, unvaccinated dogs, and dogs in animal shelters. Early detection, aggressive treatment, and supportive care can significantly improve survival rates for affected canines. However, prevention is best, and vaccination is most effective for prevention. 

Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team can take care of your dog’s vaccinations at their next wellness exam. Schedule an appointment, so we can not only ensure your dog is protected but also reduce the spread of this serious viral disease.