Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a nasty, highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs – especially puppies. It can make them seriously sick, and without treatment, it can even be fatal. But don’t worry, knowing what to look for and how to prevent it can keep your dog happy and healthy.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about parvovirus, how to spot it and why vaccination is the best way to protect your four-legged friend.
Parvovirus spreads quickly, especially among unvaccinated dogs. It’s passed on through direct contact with an infected dog or by coming into contact with their faeces. It can also be transmitted by contact with surfaces, such as water bowls and leashes. Since dogs love to sniff around and socialise, they’re particularly vulnerable, especially puppies who haven’t had their vaccinations yet.
Signs of parvovirus
The symptoms of parvovirus can be pretty rough on your dog. You might notice them vomiting repeatedly, having severe diarrhoea, feeling lethargic or even refusing to eat. Some dogs might also have blood in their stool, stomach pain, bloating or even a fever.
The virus can be fatal if left untreated, so if your dog’s showing any of these signs, don’t wait. Get them to your vet ASAP.
Veterinarian Dr Sian Goodger from Brighton Vet in WA says, “Parvovirus is particularly dangerous for young, old and immunocompromised dogs, as well as those who aren’t vaccinated.”
Vaccination for parvovirus
Here’s the good news: parvovirus is completely preventable with a simple vaccine from your vet. Puppies should start their vaccinations between six and eight weeks old, with a few boosters over the following weeks. Your vet will help you map out the best vaccination schedule for your dog.
Just remember, the vaccine won’t fully protect your dog until the whole course is completed. Protective immunity kicks in a few days or even weeks after the final dose, so chat with your vet about when it’s safe for your pup to meet other dogs or visit dog parks.
“If your dog isn’t fully vaccinated, keep them away from unvaccinated dogs and stick to isolation for 10 to 14 days after their last vaccination,” says Dr Goodger.
Adult and senior dogs require a booster vaccine every one to three years to keep them protected from parvovirus.
Not sure if your adult dog is up to date on their shots? Talk to your vet about getting them fully protected.
Treatment of parvovirus
Parvovirus is treatable, but it’s a serious illness that needs immediate attention. It can progress quickly, so an affected dog needs urgent veterinary care. If your dog is affected, they’ll likely need to be hospitalised for medication, fluids and other treatments. Even with all the best care, parvovirus can still be fatal, which is why preventing it in the first place is so important.
Prevention
Dr Goodger says parvovirus is a “very persistent virus”, which can survive up to one year in the soil and is easily transferred on clothing, shoes and other animals. If you’ve been in contact with dogs with parvovirus, avoid handling other dogs, or thoroughly wash your hands and change your clothes first.
For puppies and unvaccinated dogs, it’s best to hold off on any socialising until they’re fully vaccinated.
Your local vet should advise if parvovirus has been active in your local area. According to Dr Goodger, if there’s an outbreak of parvovirus locally, pet owners should contact their vet and ensure their dogs are up to date with vaccinations, as well as doing bleach foot baths at a ratio of one-to-30 bleach to water to avoid bringing the virus into the family home.
If you suspect your dog has parvovirus, quarantine and separate your dog from other animals before seeking urgent treatment from your vet.
