Canine parvovirus enteritis is a common viral disease of dogs mainly affecting the intestine. There is a plethora of information on the internet related to this infection. Yet, there are a lot of questions and doubts about the disease. Addressing the concerns of the pet owners, here are the answers to the top frequently asked questions (FAQs) by the dog- parents to Veterinarians.

1. What is canine parvovirus enteritis or CPV infection?

It is one of the highly contagious infectious diseases of dogs, commonly seen in unvaccinated ones. Canine parvovirus (CPV-2) is the causative agent of the infection. It is a small DNA virus. The virus is extremely stable and resistant to adverse environmental conditions. Dogs of any age, breed, and sex can get infected from the disease. Six weeks to six months old puppies are more susceptible to the infection. Infection can be transmitted from one dog to the other by contact with the discharges (vomitus and stool) from the infected dog.

2. Can adult dogs get infected?

Yes. Although pups of age 6weeks to 6 months are more susceptible, dogs of any age can contract the infection. Adult dogs can acquire the infection especially when they are not routinely vaccinated. This means that dog’s age will not protect them from the infection.

3. Can very young pups (below 6 weeks of age) get infected?

No, provided the mother’s vaccination record is up to date. Very young puppies are protected by the maternal antibodies which means, they have acquired immunity from their mother. This immunity protects them from the virus in the initial weeks of life. But as weeks pass by, the acquired immunity drops and the need for vaccination arises.

4. What are the signs of the disease?

The symptoms include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of body condition
• Vomiting
• Bloody diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low body temperature or fever

If your dog has these symptoms consult the vet immediately. The above-listed signs only suggest that your dog may have this particular infection. There are other conditions with similar symptoms therefore, it is your vet who should diagnose the disease.

5. What does the virus do?

The virus needs a host cell to multiply. It primarily infects the cells of the intestine, bone marrow, and heart cells. Once they multiply in the cell it causes cell death and loss of function. Intestinal cells lose their capacity to absorb and assimilate nutrients. The sloughing off of the intestinal lining together with the inflammation results in bloody diarrhea. Fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea leaves the body severely dehydrated. The virus also destroys the WBCs, paving the way for other bacterial infections.

6. What is the treatment given?

There are no magic pills to eliminate the virus from the body. However, treatment focuses on supporting and reviving the body to combat the infection. The first step is to identify and report the symptoms to the vet. The vet may enquire about the vaccination and deworming history, make sure you answer genuinely. Treatment comprises of replacement of the lost fluids, antibiotics, drugs to control vomiting. In this condition, oral feeding is strictly contraindicated, as it can trigger nausea and vomiting. Once the vomiting ceases, palatable food can be gradually introduced.

7. How can you prevent it?

Vaccination is the key to prevent parvovirus enteritis. Vaccination should be taken seriously. If you are unsure of the schedule you may either enquire with the vet or read from the internet (Please check my Deworming & Vaccination Article). Normally a multi-component vaccine (vaccine which works for multiple viral infections) is given in a series of three shots (6th, 9th, and 12th week). Make sure you complete those three shots in the given time. This will help to maintain an optimum level of immunity.

Dog-parents are often advised to get their puppies vaccinated at the age of 45 days. This is because immunity derived from the mother wears-off by the age of 6 weeks. So if the gap between the fading of natural immunity and vaccination is prolonged, there is a potential window for the infection to take place.

Hygiene is a critical factor in the prevention process. The excreta and vomitus act as a potential source of infection, therefore clean the surroundings and the body of the dog thoroughly. The virus can survive in inanimate objects like clothes, feeding bowl, cage floor, kennel, etc for almost 5 months or longer. Disinfection and incineration of the contents before disposal is a good way to minimize the risk for other dogs.

Reduce contact with other dogs. Do not allow your pup to mingle with unknown or unvaccinated dogs. It is easy to contract the infection in puppyhood. So wait till your pup finishes the course of the vaccine.

Diluted sodium hypochlorite (bleaching powder) solution can be used for disinfection. It is one of the most effective and feasible disinfectants against parvovirus. It can be prepared by adding 1 part of bleaching powder with 30 parts of water. Make sure you give at least 10 mins contact time.

8. Is full protection assured after the first shot of the vaccine?

No. One shot of the vaccine is not enough to attain the desired level of immunity. It is advised to take 3 shots (6th,9th, and 12th week) of the vaccine for complete protection.

9. Can your dog be completely protected if he/she has zero contact with other dogs?

No. Keeping your puppy away from other dogs is a good preventive measure to avoid any obvious infections. However, parvovirus can remain viable in the environment for months. If an infected dog has vomited or defecated, your dog can contract the infection by taking a walk, sniffing, or licking of that particular area.

10. Will my dog survive?

This is the ultimate question that we get asked all the time. The truth is treatment can be expensive and your dog may pass away even after aggressive treatments. Scientific studies show that the survival rate of dogs can be higher than 64% with appropriate treatment. Early recognition and immediate therapy are very crucial for successful treatment. Therefore, timely reporting and diagnosing can increase the survival rate of your dog.

“We are vets and our patients do not talk, please communicate genuinely on their behalf so that we can help you better “

With lots of hugs & wags

VetBug!