Parvovirus

What is it?

Parvovirus, also known as 'Parvo' is an incredibly infectious and deadly infection which commonly infects puppies as they are the most vulnerable due to their lack of or very weak immune system, however it is not uncommon to infect adult or senior dogs. It is highly resilient as it can survive up to two months at room temperature and over one year in ideal conditions for the virus which is around body temperature of 37 degrees.

It affects the body by targeting the dividing cells which then allows the gut and the bone marrow to become the most affected however it also affects the heart muscle too allowing it to become deadly. 

There are certain breeds that are more prone to becoming infected which are:

  • Rottweilers
  • Labradors 
  • German shepherds
  • Springer spaniels 
  • Dobermans 
  • Alaskan Malamutes 

How is it spread and what are the symptoms?

The way it infects dogs is via other infected dogs coming into contact with each other when they are not vaccinated or drinking infected water, although as it is a very resilient virus it can also be transmitted via:

  • The ground
  • Kennels
  • Hands
  • Objects
  • Clothing
  • Fur

Symptoms may include:

  • Bloody diarrhoea with a distinctive smell
  • Lethargy (lack of energy and not wanting to move much)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Severe weight loss
  • Dehydrated

Prevention, Control and Treatment

Parvovirus can be prevented via a vaccination when the puppy is 8 weeks old and is done alongside common dog disease vaccines. 

Alongside this or if you are not able to do this it is vital that you keep the dog's environment and belongings clean and disinfected to prevent and control the virus transmitting and spreading. It is recommended that you disinfect toys, bedding, clothing, leads, collars, harnesses and environments weekly to ensure proper hygiene. in addition to this ensure that clean and fresh water is kept down for your dog at all times and that they don't have access to potentially infected bodies of water. 

If your dog does get infected with Parvovirus it is critical that you take them straight to the vets immediately as it is deadly and affects vital organs. In regards to treatment, antivirals rarely work and are not that readily available, the most common treatments are about alleviating the symptoms and keeping the dog as comfortable as possible whilst their immune system tries to fight the infection all whilst monitoring them closely and using supportive therapy alongside such as:

  • Iv fluids
  • Painkillers
  • Anti-sick meds
  • Plasma/ blood transfusion
  • Antibiotics if there is a secondary infection
  • Feeding tubes – nutrition

It is important to note that if a dog is infected or suspected to be infected with Parvovirus it is important that they are isolated due to it being extremely infectious

Is Parvovirus a notifiable disease?

No, you do not legally have to notify any governing bodies if a parvovirus case is confirmed