Parvovirus, which is often shortened to “Parvo”, is a serious illness that inflicts the canine species. It usually strikes during the puppy years, but a dog of any age is susceptible. Dogs contract this disease through oral contact with a previously infected dogs feces. This contact does not have to be direct, as this virus can survive in soil for over a year. An infected dog will display symptoms of the illness 5 to 10 days later. These symptoms include lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. The first sign is lethargy, followed by loss of appetite. Diarrhea, and vomiting present in the final stage of the disease. The vomiting and diarrhea are very dangerous, as dehydration can be quick, and even deadly in a short period of time.
Treatment by a veterinarian, in a timely manner, is the best course of action, if dog Parvo is suspected. The veterinarian will first diagnose the dog by taking a fecal test to determine if the Parvovirus is present. If the dog does have the virus the medical intervention will be quick, and aggressive. IV fluids will be given to rehydrated the canine, along with antinausea medicine, and antibiotics. In some cases a blood plasma transfusion from a donor dog, who has previously survived Parvo, may be administered. However, this treatment has not been studied enough to verify it’s effectiveness.
Dog Parvovirus is a serious illness, and even with proper medical treatment a positive outcome cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, as in most medical cases, prevention is the best cure. Parvo can be easily avoided by vaccinating puppies, and older dogs who have not been previously vaccinated against the disease.