Parvo Virus Infection in Dogs

The canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is an acute, highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs. CPV has a tendency to attack rapidly reproducing cells, such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract. CPV affects dogs of all ages, but the majority of cases are seen in puppies that are between six weeks and six months old. Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers appear to acquire the infection more readily and experience more severe symptoms. The reason for lower resistance in these breeds is unknown.

This virus manifests in two different forms.

•        Intestinal form - more common
•        Cardiac form     - less common

Transmission

CPV is transmitted either by direct contact with an infected dog, or indirectly, by the fecal-oral route.

The virus sheds in large amounts in the stools of acutely infected dogs for up to several weeks following infection. This virus can be carried on the dog’s hair and feet, as well as on contaminated crates, shoes, and other objects. When the dog licks the fecal material off hair, feet, or anything that came in contact with infected feces, he acquires the disease.

Clinical signs

Intestinal form:

• Anorexia- Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Fever - 106°F
• Vomiting
• Severe bloody diarrhea
• Heavy weight loss
• Dehydration
• Mucous membranes become red
• Abdominal pain or discomfort on palpation
• Increased heart beat

Cardiac form:

• Attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies
• Sudden death
• Crying, difficulty in breathing, gasping for breath
• Extreme depression
• Weakness
• Unwillingness to nurse
• Irregular heartbeat

  Diagnosis

  It is based on;

•     Physical examination of clinical signs
•     Biochemical tests
•     Urine and fecal analysis
•     Abdominal radiographs
•     Abdominal ultrasounds

Treatment

No treatment found as the disease is a viral infection. Supportive treatment is focused on curing the symptoms and preventing secondary bacterial infections.

• Intravenous fluid and nutrition therapy is crucial in maintaining normal body fluid after severe diarrhea and dehydration
• Antiemetics – to stop vomiting
• H2 Blockers to reduce nausea
• Antibiotics – to counteract secondary bacterial infections
• Anthelmintics – to kill intestinal worms

Management after recovering

Even after your dog has recovered from a CPV infection, it will still have a weakened immune system, and will be susceptible to other illnesses. Therefore; you should boost your dog's immune system.  A diet that is easily digested will be best for your dog while it is recovering.

Your dog will also continue to be a contagion risk to other dogs for at least two months after the initial recovery. You will need to isolate your dog from other dogs for a period of time. Wash all of the equipments that your dog uses (e.g., dishes, kennel, toys) with non-toxic cleaners. Recovery comes with long-term immunity against the parvovirus, but it is no guarantee that your pet will not be infected with the virus again.

Prevention

Thoroughly clean and disinfect the cages of infected animals. Parvo is an extremely hardy virus that resists most household cleaners and survives on the premises for months. The most effective disinfectant is household bleach in a 1:32 dilution. The bleach must be left on the contaminated surface for 20 minutes before being rinsed.

Vaccinations:

·      Start by 6 weeks of age,

During the first weeks of life, puppies are protected by high levels of maternal antibodies. As these levels decline gradually, from 2-4 weeks puppies are more susceptible to infection.

·  Booster vaccination is given at 12 weeks of age and thereafter, annual re-vaccination should be given.