With our dogs considered as members of our families, there is no doubt we wish to keep them in the pink of health. Diseases are, unfortunately, abundant and easily transmitted from one to the other. You might or might not have heard of Canine parvovirus (CPV). Here is an introductory list of everything you need to know about CPV.
What is it?
Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious virus affecting dogs and is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their faeces, environments, or people. The virus is capable of contaminating kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and through the clothes and hands of people who have handled infected dogs.
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| Photo Credit: Arizona Pet Vet |
What are the symptoms?
Once a dog is infected there is an incubation period of three to seven days before symptoms start to appear. Some tell-tale signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.
Please contact your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs.
The virus is usually suspected upon the results of laboratory tests, physical examination, and a dog's clinical history. The diagnosis can often be confirmed through faecal testing.
Are all dogs prone to CPV?
Puppies and adolescent dogs are especially susceptible to CPV. Several factors can also be considered when determining the infection rates among dogs; immune status of the individual dog to the number of viruses the dog is exposed to.
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| Photo Credit : petcoach.co |
What are the treatment options?
Good news, CPV is curable. A hospital stay is often necessary so that the dog can receive ample care and treatment – receive intravenous fluids and nutrient to replace quantities lost via vomiting and diarrhoea. Intravenous drip and blood transfusions are also options considered to boost low blood cell count.
Dogs will respond to medical therapy if initiated in a timely fashion. Dogs who recover from CPV infection retain lifelong protective immunity against the virus that infected them.
Since the virus is contagious the infected dog should also be isolated to minimise the spread of infection.
Are there any prevention methods?
Good hygiene and vaccination are useful in preventing CPV. Vaccinations are usually administered as part of a combination shot. You could check with your vet before deciding if your dog should receive the vaccine.
Always be careful. A puppy can be exposed to CPV without warning; dog parks and lawns. Dog not let your dog come into contact with the faecal waste of other dogs while walking or playing outdoors (reminder to pick up after your dog). If you realise that have come into contact with a dog with CPV, avoid handling other dogs and wash your hands thoroughly and change into a new set of clothes before handling.
CPV can be inactivated by bleach. Solution: one part bleach mixed with approx. 30 parts water to disinfect any indoor area (bedding, food/water bowls that once housed an infected dog).
Remember, early detection and ample treatment are important in successful cases. Survival rates go up to 90% with proper treatment. Always be aware of changes in your dog's behaviour!
Written by: Gabrielle
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