Canine Parvovirus, also commonly called CPV or parvo, is the most prevalent, infectious canine disease in the United States. It is highly contagious and often deadly, particularly because current vaccines do not protect against all strains.

It is therefore very important that dog owners are informed about the disease, how it is spread, what symptoms to look out for, and what to do if you suspect your dog has parvo.

Although CPV can occur in adult dogs, it most commonly affects puppies and young dogs, by attacking their underdeveloped immune systems. Certain breeds, including Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers are known to be particularly susceptible to canine parvovirus.

The first indication that a dog may have contracted parvo will be a high fever, along with general lethargy, depression and loss of appetite. The dog may then begin vomiting and may develop diarrhea, which has a distinct yellow look and a particularly foul smell.

As the disease progresses, the dog becomes dehydrated, and may go into shock. The dog may also suffer heart failure if the virus moves into the heart. In some cases, heart failure can occur years after the initial parvo infection.

The most common form of parvovirus, called enteritis, targets the digestive system. It causes severe damage to the walls of the stomach and intestines, so that it becomes impossible for the dog to draw sustenance from food and fluids. This often results in bloody diarrhea, and unless it is treated the dog will die.

Even if the dog does recover he is likely to be weak and sickly for the rest of his life.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for CPV. Treatment is focused mainly on keeping the dog hydrated by delivering fluids intravenously. This may also be supplemented with a balanced electrolyte solution. Antibiotics may also be administered to ward off opportunistic bacterial infections.

Depending on the severity of the infection additional medication may be given. If the dog is in shock corticosteroids may be administered, while an antiserum may also be prescribed.

The parvovirus is extremely resilient. It is transmitted through the faeces of an infected animal, and can live away from a host for up to six months.

It withstands most household cleaners and commercial disinfectants, although undiluted chlorine bleach has prove to be effective in killing it.

It is vital that your puppy is vaccinated against parvovirus. Modern vaccines may not provide complete immunity but they do at least provide protection against most known strains.

You should also be very wary of allowing your puppy to interact with dogs you are not familiar with. In fact, you should not allow your puppy off your property until he has had his full set of shots. Better to be safe than sorry.

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