Canine Parvovirus: Understanding the Disease in Dogs

Section 1: What is Canine Parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease among dogs, affecting dogs of all ages. However, puppies from weaning to 90 days old are more prone to the illness, which can be severe. Some breeds may exhibit symptoms like rapid breathing, heart failure, and acute myocarditis, which can lead to death. Clinically, purebred and imported breeds tend to have higher infection rates than local breeds. This disease can occur yearround, but it is more prevalent during winter and autumn, with the highest concentration of the virus in the feces of infected dogs.

Section 2: Types of Symptoms Caused by Canine Parvovirus

1. Enteritis Type

The symptoms of enteritis are more pronounced. Infected dogs may experience high fever, with temperatures reaching 39.540.5 degrees Celsius. Each dog may exhibit different symptoms, including fever or none at all. Typically, dogs will show signs of depression, lack of energy, diarrhea, and vomiting. The feces may turn yellow or gray, and eventually, dogs may pass red, watery stools with a strong, unpleasant odor. Dogs may also gradually lose weight due to a lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration. This can cause the dog's eyes to appear sunken and its skin to lose its former smoothness and luster.

2. Myocarditis Type

Myocarditis often presents with no obvious symptoms, making it a more dangerous condition. The initial stage may appear normal, and by the time the symptoms are noticed, it may be too late for effective treatment. This can be confusing, as a seemingly healthy dog may suddenly experience rapid heartbeat, irregular heart rhythm, heart failure, and even respiratory distress, potentially leading to death. If a dog contracts acute parvovirus, it may die within one to two days without timely treatment. Chronic cases can last about seven days. Diagnosis can often be made by examining the color of the dog's vomit and feces.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information about canine parvovirus, click on "Preventing Canine Parvovirus" to learn more.