What is Canine Parvovirus?

If you're a new puppy owner, you’ve probably heard of canine parvovirus—an aggressive and potentially fatal illness. Whether you’re already familiar with it or just learning, it’s essential to understand the risks, prevention, and treatment of this highly contagious disease.

Parvovirus primarily affects unvaccinated puppies between 6 and 20 weeks old, though older dogs can also be at risk. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and bone marrow, causing severe damage. In young puppies, parvovirus can also affect the heart, leading to inflammation, poor function, and arrhythmias.

The virus begins its assault by targeting the bone marrow and lymph nodes, where it weakens the immune system by destroying young immune cells. Once the body’s defenses are compromised, parvovirus moves on to the small intestine. Here, it attacks the epithelium—the lining of the intestine that absorbs nutrients and protects the body from harmful bacteria. As the virus halts the division of these cells, the epithelium breaks down, leading to severe diarrhea, nausea, and the entry of septic toxins into the bloodstream. If untreated, parvovirus can quickly lead to dehydration, shock, and even death.

How is Parvovirus Transmitted?

Parvovirus spreads in two main ways: direct transmission and indirect transmission.

• Direct transmission occurs when a dog comes into contact with the virus by sniffing, licking, or eating infected feces.
• Indirect transmission happens when the virus is spread through contaminated objects, surfaces, or even people. The virus can survive on clothing, leashes, dog toys, and human skin, making it easy for it to spread from one dog to another.

What makes parvovirus especially dangerous is its resilience. It can survive for at least two months indoors and, depending on temperature and sunlight exposure, it can live for over a year outdoors. Even more concerning, parvovirus is resistant to most common cleaning chemicals, meaning standard disinfectants may not be enough to fully eradicate it.

Why Do Puppies Get Parvovirus?

Puppies are particularly susceptible to parvovirus, especially during the first few months of life.

• Up to 6 weeks old, puppies receive antibodies from their mother’s milk, which help protect them from infections, including parvovirus.
• From 6 weeks to 6 months old, this natural immunity begins to fade, leaving puppies highly vulnerable to the virus.

This is why vaccination is so important. Puppies should receive three rounds of parvovirus vaccinations at 6, 8, and 12 weeks of age. Additionally, a booster shot at 14-16 weeks is recommended to ensure they build strong immunity against the virus.

What Breeds are Most At-Risk of Getting Parvovirus?

While all dogs can get parvovirus, certain breeds are more susceptible due to genetic factors. Studies have shown that purebred dogs tend to have a higher infection rate than mixed-breed dogs. This is likely because intense breeding practices, which focus on preserving certain breed characteristics, can narrow the gene pool and inadvertently weaken the breed’s immune system.

The following breeds are at a higher risk for developing parvovirus:

• Labrador Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• English Springer Spaniels
• American Staffordshire Terriers
• Doberman Pinschers
• Rottweilers

Research conducted between 1982 and 1991 by Doreen M. Houston, DVM, DVSc, Carl S. Ribble, DVM, MSc, PhD, and Laurie L. Head, DVM, analyzed medical records from 283 dogs with confirmed canine parvovirus (CPV) enteritis and 834 age-matched healthy dogs. Their findings indicated that breeds like Rottweilers, American Pit Bull Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, and German Shepherds had an increased risk of CPV enteritis, while breeds like Toy Poodles and Cocker Spaniels had a decreased risk compared to mixed-breed dogs.

Additional factors that affect the likelihood of parvovirus infection include:

• Age: Puppies and younger dogs are at higher risk.
• Vaccination status: Unvaccinated dogs are 12.7 times more likely to develop CPV enteritis.
• Season: Dogs are more likely to develop the disease in July, August, and September, with the highest incidence during summer months.
• Sex: Male dogs that are sexually intact are twice as likely to develop CPV enteritis compared to females.

This information underscores the importance of ensuring that high-risk breeds receive timely vaccinations, especially in their early months, to help safeguard their health.

Symptoms of Parvo in Dogs

Recognizing the symptoms of parvovirus early is crucial, especially in puppies, as they can become severely ill within a very short period of time after infection. If your dog shows any of the following signs, it could be a sign of parvovirus:

• Bloody diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Lethargy (extreme tiredness or weakness)
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Dehydration
• Depression (lack of energy or interest)

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Parvovirus spreads rapidly, so it’s important to quarantine any sick dog to prevent transmission to other pets in the household or community.

Canine Parvovirus Treatment

There is no direct cure for canine parvovirus, which is why early detection and prompt treatment are essential. If your dog is infected, your veterinarian will focus on managing the symptoms and providing supportive care to help the body recover. Treatment typically includes:

• Supportive fluids to combat dehydration.
• Nutritional support to maintain strength.
• Medications to control symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

In severe cases, IV fluids and antibiotics may be administered to address the risk of secondary bacterial infections caused by damage to the intestines and a weakened immune system.

The survival rate for puppies receiving treatment ranges from 68% to 92%, depending on how quickly the infection is caught. If a puppy survives the first four days of treatment, they are likely to make a full recovery. Adult dogs generally have a higher survival rate, but it’s still crucial to start treatment as soon as symptoms appear.

Parvo Prevention

Parvovirus is a preventable disease, and the best defense is ensuring your dog receives the recommended vaccinations. Vaccinated dogs are typically immune to the virus, which significantly reduces the risk of infection.

Key prevention steps include:

• Vaccinate puppies: Make sure your puppy receives the full series of vaccinations, as this will build their immunity against parvovirus.
• Vaccinate the mother: Before breeding, it’s essential to ensure that the mother is fully vaccinated. This helps ensure she passes on antibodies to her puppies, offering them some protection in their early weeks of life.

For unvaccinated puppies, extra caution is needed:

• Limit exposure to other dogs: Keep your puppy away from unvaccinated dogs and areas where infected dogs might have been.
• Take care with your clothing: Parvovirus can linger on surfaces, including clothing. Be mindful of carrying the virus from one place to another, especially in environments where unvaccinated dogs may be present.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of parvovirus infection for your puppy.

Lion Country Supply Vaccines with Parvo

To help protect your dog from the dangers of parvovirus, we carry a variety of vaccines, each designed to offer different levels of protection:

• Parvovirus Vaccine
  Specifically targeted to protect against parvovirus, this vaccine is a vital part of a puppy’s vaccination schedule, helping to ensure they remain protected from the virus.

• 5-Way Puppy Vaccine
  This vaccine is recommended for puppies at 6 and 9 weeks old. It protects against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus types 1 (hepatitis) and 2 (respiratory disease), Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. All the viruses in this vaccine are modified live versions of the virus, which help stimulate the immune system effectively.

• Nobivac Canine 7-Way Vaccine (1-DAPPv+L4)
  A comprehensive immunization formula, the Nobivac 7-Way Vaccine is recommended for healthy dogs 8 weeks of age or older. It provides protection against canine distemper, hepatitis, respiratory disease, parainfluenza, parvovirus, and two strains of Leptospira. This vaccine is an excellent option for dogs needing broad-spectrum protection against multiple serious diseases.

• Nobivac Canine 8-Way Vaccine (1 DA2PPvL2+Cv)
  The Nobivac 8-Way Vaccine offers annual protection for your dog against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, two types of Leptospirosis (L. Canicola and L. Icterohaemorrhagiae), Canine Coronavirus, and Adenovirus Types 1 and 2, ensuring comprehensive protection from a variety of serious illnesses.

• TruCan 9-Way Vaccine (DAPPi+Lyme - L4)
  The TruCan 9-Way Vaccine is effective for vaccinating healthy dogs 9 weeks of age or older against a broad spectrum of diseases. It provides protection against Canine Distemper, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, Canine Adenovirus Type 2, Canine Coronavirus, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, and four strains of Leptospirosis (including Leptospira canicola, L. icterohaemorrhagiae, L. grippotyphosa, and L. Pomona), as well as Borrelia burgdorferi (the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease). This vaccine offers comprehensive coverage for dogs at risk of multiple severe infections.

Each of these vaccines plays a crucial role in preventing parvovirus and other serious health risks. Speak with your veterinarian to determine which vaccine is the best choice for your dog based on their age, health, and vaccination history.

Conclusion: Protect Your Puppy from Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious illness that can quickly become fatal if not addressed. However, it is entirely preventable with the right vaccinations and early intervention. By ensuring your puppy receives the necessary vaccines, practicing good hygiene, and keeping them away from unvaccinated dogs, you can protect them from this dangerous virus.

As a responsible pet owner, staying informed about the risks of parvovirus and taking preventive measures is crucial for the health and well-being of your dog. If you’re unsure about which vaccine is right for your pet, our team is here to help guide you.

Don’t wait—act today to protect your furry friend. Explore our range of vaccines and reach out to your veterinarian to ensure your puppy stays healthy and happy for years to come!

Thank you for reading!

Michael Cassatt, LCS Director of Marketing