25/07/2021
Canine Parvovirus; prevention is better than cure! πΆ
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease of dogs that commonly causes acute vomiting and diarrhoea in puppies between six and 20 weeks of age. Older unvaccinated dogs are also at risk.π
βParvoβ, is caused by Canine Parvovirus type 2 (CPV) which first appeared in Europe around 1976. By 1978 the virus had spread unchecked worldwide. Three decades after its first appearance, outbreaks occur much less frequently due to the development of effective vaccines in the late 1970s. However, vaccinating your dog is of the utmost importance. π
Once a dog or puppy is infected, there is an incubation period of three to seven days before the onset of the first symptoms.πΎ
Symptoms often associated with CPV include lethargy, depression, and loss or lack of appetite, followed by a sudden onset of high fever, vomiting and severe often bloody diarrhoea. π€’
Eventually, the intestinal surface can become so damaged that it begins to break down, and the bacteria that are normally confined to the gut pe*****te the intestinal walls and enter the bloodstream. This causes both significant fluid loss and widespread infection inside the body.
CPV is not always fatal, but death is caused by dehydration and shock, along with the effects of septic toxins. β±οΈ
Treatment options for dogs suffering from CPV involve intense supportive care and management of symptoms. π₯
Hospitalisation to provide intravenous nutrients and fluids to replace the vast quantities lost via vomiting and diarrhoea are standard. Blood transfusions may also help support the immune system.π©ββοΈ
Antibiotics in addition to medications to control nausea and diarrhoea are also useful. Many dogs will respond to medical therapy if it is initiated in a timely fashion but it can be a costly and time-consuming treatment regimen.
These poor pups have to be isolated and are handled by our caring team who have to wear full PPE to prevent the spread of the virus to our other patients. It is a very stressful time in a young pups life and often heartbreaking for all involved. Not all parvo patients can be saved. βοΈ
Prevention
Fortunately, vaccination is highly effective and can be administered every 3 to 4 weeks from 6 weeks of age until they are at least 16 weeks of age. A booster vaccination is recommended one year later, and then at one or three-year intervals thereafter. β
Remember if your pup is unwell or is experiencing bouts of bloody diarrhoea and/or vomiting, Parvo is only one of several potential culprits. Your veterinarian can run several tests to help determine whether your dog is infected with CPV. Importantly, the sooner your pup is given veterinary care the better the chance of successful treatment.πππ