Parvovirus in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Parvovirus in dogs is a serious and dangerous infectious disease, especially for puppies and unvaccinated dogs. 80% of unprotected dogs will not survive without intensive veterinary care, and even with treatment, 10-30% will succumb. Veterinarian-approved vaccines are the only safe and effective way to protect your dog from parvovirus.
What is parvovirus in dogs?
Parvovirus is an infectious disease that spreads rapidly among dogs. It was first recognized in the 1970s. Despite the wide availability of effective vaccines, it still exists today and poses a risk to unvaccinated dogs.
What are the symptoms of parvovirus?
Symptoms of parvovirus appear when the virus attacks the intestine, usually 2-7 days after it enters the body. Symptoms include:
- Anorexia
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Bloody, foul-smelling diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Dehydration and weight loss
Puppies infected in utero or before the age of 8 weeks may develop myocarditis. More rarely, it may be associated with erythematous skin lesions.
Which dogs are at higher risk of parvovirus?
Certain factors increase the risk of parvovirus infection:
- Age: Parvovirus is more common and more severe in puppies and young dogs under one year old.
- Unvaccinated dogs: Lack of vaccination significantly increases the risk of infection.
- Specific breeds: Rottweilers, Dobermann Pinschers, German Shepherds, Labradors, Bull Terriers.
- Poor living conditions.
- Other diseases that hinder the fight against infection.
How do veterinarians diagnose parvovirus in dogs?
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. The ELISA method is a simple test used to detect parvovirus in feces within about fifteen minutes.
How is parvovirus treated?
- Symptomatic treatment: There are no antiviral drugs available that can eliminate the virus. Treatment is symptomatic. Severely ill dogs require hospitalization.
- Isolation: Infected dogs must be isolated to prevent the spread of the virus.
- A newer treatment option for parvovirus is therapy with monoclonal antibodies, which is not yet available in Greece.
How to care for a dog with parvovirus
Survival depends on immediate intensive treatment by a veterinarian. Dogs with milder symptoms and those recovering can continue supportive therapy at home:
- Keep your dog clean and warm.
- Offer small and frequent amounts of water to address and prevent dehydration.
- Small, frequent meals are better. Do not overload their stomach. A special diet is ideal.
- Administer the medications prescribed by your veterinarian at the appropriate time and dosage.
- Isolate them from other dogs. Even when they start to recover, they will remain infectious for 2-4 weeks.
Disinfection at home
Most common cleaners are not effective against parvovirus. Use a household bleach solution (1 part bleach to 30 parts water) to clean all surfaces and fabrics that have come into contact with your dog.
Conclusion
Parvovirus is a serious threat to dogs, especially puppies and unvaccinated dogs. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment are critical for survival, while vaccination remains the best way to prevent the disease.
