What is Canine Parvo Virus?

Canine Parvo Virus is a severe viral infestation that attacks the lining of the intestines and causes acute digestive tract distress. It may also invade bone marrow, lymph, and in some cases attacks the heart muscle causing sudden death, especially in puppies.

Canine Parvo Virus was first identified in the late 1970’s and spread worldwide within a year. It is a hardy virus and easily transports on shoes, tires, anything that may have inadvertently come into contact with the feces of an infected dog, or even with infected soil. There are currently three known strains of CPV. The third, Type C, is so far seen mainly in Italy, VIetnam, and Spain. But note that it has also been found in the USA, as evidenced by the death of Zen in Arkansas, as well as another dog who apparently contracted CPV Type C at the same dog show.

This should be a heads up for anyone out there who travels with their dog, and/or whose dog comes into contact with a large number of other dogs at dog shows, agility events, or even simply doggie daycare or at the park. I don’t intend by this to instill panic, but please make sure your dog is vaccinated and exercise due care when you are exposing your dog or puppy to other unknown dogs and places.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Signs and symptoms include loss of appetite, lack of energy, fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea. The vomit or diarrhea may be bloody and is characterized by a strong unpleasant odour. Dehydration and shock are the primary concerns, and young pups are especially at risk. These animals will die if they are not treated quickly.

How is it contracted?

Parvo Virus is transmitted mainly through the feces of infected dogs, but may also be contracted through infected soil, or nearly anything that has come into contact with the virus. Puppies may acquire some immunity through their mothers if the mother has been vaccinated specifically for Parvo Virus, but this immunity often does not last until the puppy’s immune system is mature. Some vets recommend a series of vaccinations for puppies, which should protect them for life. However, note that Zen contracted Parvo Virus Type C, which is a recent mutation still rare in the USA, and apparently was not included in his vaccination regime.

There is some evidence that it is possible for a dog to be a carrier of Parvo Virus without showing symptoms. It’s critical that you wash your hands with bleach if you come into contact with unknown dogs so you can avoid spreading infection.

What is the treatment?

Unfortunately, there is no drug known to kill the virus. Once your dog contracts this illness, treatment is mainly supportive; that is, sick dogs may be given IV fluids if they are dehydrated. Secondary bacterial infections are possible and antibiotics may be necessary. Treatment may take from a couple of days to several weeks, depending on the dog and the degree of infection. Please do not attempt to treat this illness at home. It is critical that your dog is properly re-hydrated and is tested and treated for secondary infections.

Prognosis: Mortality rate from CPV is around twenty percent. If you catch the disease early enough and obtain proper veterinary care, your dog should recover and go on to live a normal life.

What else should I know?

A dog that recovers from CPV is still infectious for up to 2 months, so it must be kept away from other dogs and puppies. You must be vigilant about discarding this dog’s feces and cleaning your hands thoroughly before touching another dog. You should notify friends and neighbours if your dog has had CPV so they can ensure their dogs are vaccinated.

Parvo Virus can persist in the environment for long periods. It is important to clean up after an infection. Bleach is the only known household product that kills the virus. Throw away bowls and discard or bleach bedding to prevent further infection. Discard all feces from the infected dog. Humans can spread the disease on their hands if they touch an infected dog’s feces and then touch a puppy without washing properly. Only a very small amount of fecal matter can transmit large colonies of this virus.

If your dog recovers from CPV, his or her digestive system will be very weak for a while. Request and follow your vet’s instructions for a diet to rebuild your four-legged friend’s depleted system.

Note: There is a lot of information about Canine Parvo Virus available online. I have summarized information from several sources. I found some contradictory information and have done my best to account for differences while keeping this FAQ coherent and reasonable in length.
If you are uncertain about any information here or elsewhere, contact your vet with your questions and concerns. They’re the experts, after all.