Parvovirus is one of the most dangerous viruses a dog can face – especially for puppies. It spreads quickly, survives on surfaces for months, and can strike before you even realise something is wrong. Veterinary surgeon Graham Lewis explains all you need to know...
What is parvovirus?
Parvovirus is a contagious virus that is spread via faeces from affected animals. It first appeared in the 1970s and quickly spread worldwide.
Once in an affected animal the virus spreads through the bloodstream and attacks rapidly dividing cells such as lymph nodes, intestinal wall and bone marrow. This causes the body’s immune system to be severely weakened and also allows bacteria from the gut to get into the body and can cause sepsis.
What are the symptoms of parvovirus?
Usually within 2 or 3 days of infection the disease process can start and signs can include lethargy, vomiting, fever and bloody diarrhoea. This is often severe and in younger animals it often leads to shock and death quickly.
Can parvovirus be treated?
Once diagnosed, aggressive treatment is required. Supportive care (fluid therapy, anti-nausea medication, antibiotics and hospital care are commonly needed) is the main pillar of treating this condition but there are other options now such as some anti-viral treatments. Unfortunately this virus commonly affects young puppies and can be so severe that even with aggressive treatment it can prove fatal.
Because it is highly contagious, deep cleaning and isolating of cases in an environment with multiple dogs is also key to stop it spreading. Parvovirus is shedded in faecal material and can survive in the environment for months or even years!
Can parvovirus be prevented?
Thankfully we have a vaccine available to protect against parvovirus and this is part of the routine vaccinations we give dogs. Parvovirus vaccine is given by injection every 3 years after an initial course. Some breeds seem to be more susceptible to parvovirus infection so we give them a different initial course to ensure protection.
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Which dog breeds are more susceptible?
There is evidence that rottweilers, dobermanns and pitbulls can be more susceptible to parvovirus infection and other black and tan breeds are also at higher risk. However, the virus is highly contagious and any unvaccinated dog is at risk during an outbreak.
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I’ve heard there is parvovirus in my area – how do I keep my pets safe?
Vaccination is the best method to keep your pet safe. No vaccine has a 100% success rate, however the vaccine against canine parvovirus is highly effective and thanks to high vaccination rates in the UK the disease is thankfully now rare.
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Is there a risk to cats?
There seems to be some evidence that cats can get infected with the canine parvovirus, however the disease is often not as severe as in dogs. There is also some evidence that the routine cat vaccinations that include vaccination against feline panleukopenia virus protect against canine parvovirus.
Is there a risk to people?
No, canine parvovirus does not cause disease in people. However, with the risk to other dogs, affected animals will need barrier nursed (veterinary staff will be wearing gloves, gowns and masks to treat them).
What is the key message?
Vaccinate vaccinate vaccinate. Parvovirus is a horrible disease and commonly fatal. It is heartbreaking as a vet to see devastated pet owners and to lose pets to a condition that we can prevent.
