Symptoms & Causes of Canine Parvovirus Infection

Understanding the Causes of Canine Parvovirus:

Canine parvovirus, often referred to as parvo, is a condition that manifests in two distinct forms. The first type is caused by the canine minute virus, which is relatively nonpathogenic. However, it can lead to gastrointestinal, respiratory, and myocarditis in puppies. The second type, known as canine parvovirus type 2, is responsible for the classic parvoviral enteritis. This virus spreads through the fecaloral route, typically causing symptoms within 5 to 12 days after infection, and it has the potential to damage cells significantly.

Signs and Symptoms of Canine Parvovirus:

Puppies affected by parvovirus may exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, bleeding from the intestines, secondary bacterial infections, depression, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, a rise in body temperature due to bleeding.

Medical Diagnosis:

1. Blood tests may reveal a decrease in neutrophils and a reduction in white blood cells.

2. Fecal examinations can detect a high concentration of viral particles.

3. Auxiliary tests, such as ELISA, can be used to differentiate between the types of canine parvovirus.

How to Address Canine Parvovirus:

1. Fluid Therapy: Administer intravenous fluids containing NaCl at a rate of 66ml/kg per day. If the pet is anemic, add a 2.5% to 5% glucose solution to the NaCl.

2. Antiemetics: Options include maropitant (which carries a risk of bone marrow suppression in dogs under 4 months old) or metoclopramide.

3. Deworming: If parasites are present, thiabendazole should be administered.

4. Feeding: If vomiting is not severe after feeding, you can try to offer food. However, if vomiting is intense, it's advisable to withhold food.

5. Antidiarrheals: Use veterinaryapproved antidiarrheal medications to manage the condition.