Symptoms of Parvovirus
Symptoms of Parvovirus can vary depending on the severity of the infection. While many dogs may not show every symptom, vomiting and diarrhoea are the most common and consistent signs. Some other signs include:
- Lethargy and loss of appetite are the earliest signs of parvo infection
- The virus starts with consistent vomiting, wherein digestion becomes difficult
- Diarrhoea is often bloody, mucusy and foul-smelling.
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Fever or low body temperature (Hypothermia)
- Depression and weakness
Clinical Signs of Parvovirus
It generally takes 3-7 days for Canine Parvovirus to start showing signs in the body of an infected dog. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells of the intestine, bone marrow, and lymphoid tissues as explained below:
- Intestine: The virus breaks down the intestinal mucosal barrier and causes intestinal crypt necrosis and villus atrophy. This leads to severe diarrhoea, which often contains blood.
- Bone marrow: Parvovirus targets bone marrow cells, leading to decreased immunity in the body.
- Lymphoid tissues: By targeting the lymphoid tissues, it leads to lymphoid depletion which causes reduced immunity and makes it prone to other infections.
- Heart: In very young dogs, the virus can also infect the heart, leading to inflammation, poor function, and arrhythmias.
Do’s and Dont’s During Parvovirus
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Never Try At-Home Treatment
Parvovirus is a deadly disease that cannot be cured without the intervention of healthcare experts. Veterinarians provide IV fluids through drip to maintain the hydration level of the body as the stomach cannot digest anything by itself. Hence, following your veterinarian’s instructions is highly crucial.
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Don’t Expect Instant Results
Parvovirus is a viral disease that will complete its course in the body of the host no matter what. Do not rely on false claims that your dog will be fine in 2-3 days of treatment. The duration depends on many factors like strain affecting your dog, his immunity, vaccination status, treatment progress and others.
3. Maintain Cleanliness
The excretions of infected pets contain a large load of virus in them. Pets have a habit of licking themselves, their anal area or even vomitus. Clean your pet’s hind portion and surrounding area properly. Remember, using a regular floor cleaner cannot kill the virus, so use bleach powder while cleaning the floor. Maintain overall hygiene throughout and after the course of infection.
4. Recovery from Parvovirus
It generally takes 5-10 days for an infected dog to recover. In this disease, the immunity and digestive system are greatly affected. Your dog might not be able to gain weight, vomit or get loose motions very easily, so you need to provide them with supportive supplements for gut and immunity health. Even after dogs start digesting food, they require extra care and love during this time.
Myths About Parvovirus
❌ My pet just needs one vaccination to be protected from parvovirus
❌ If I get my pet vaccinated, he will never catch a parvovirus infection
❌ Parvo will only transfer to my dog if he comes in contact with a sick dog
❌ I can treat my dog’s parvovirus at home with oral medicines
❌ If my pet is getting proper treatment, he will get better within 2-3 days
❌ Once my dog stops vomiting, there is no need to continue the treatment
❌ If my dog is getting proper treatment then there is no chance of him collapsing
❌ Once my dog is infected with parvo, he will remain weak for his whole life
Treatment of Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a viral disease which can only be eased with supportive therapy. As the disease leads to vomiting and diarrhoea, it causes severe dehydration. Therefore, the major goal is to maintain the hydration levels of the body. Besides, antibiotics and medicines are given to control vomiting. The first thing your vet will tell you is to stop oral feeding and not to give even water as your dog won't be able to digest anything. This will provide rest to the stomach and intestines for recovery.
