Canine Parvovirus
Canine Parvovirus is caused by a virus that is very stable. The virus can exist in the environment for many years. Main signs include vomiting, diarrhea (often with blood). The development of safe, effective vaccines brought the disease under control, although it is still a serious killer, rivaling only canine distemper.
Canine parvovirus (CPV) was first observed in dogs in 1978, and this virus subsequently became globally distributed. The origin of CPV-2 has not yet been identified, although various hypotheses explaining its derivation and sudden emergence have been proposed. The most widely accepted hypothesis for its emergence is that CPV is derived from similar virus in cats.
There is a wide variation in clinical response of dogs to infection with CPV, ranging from mild or inapparent infections in dogs more than 6 months of age to acute fatal disease in puppies less than 6 months of age. The most common signs of enteric CPV infection in most puppies include sudden onset of depression, lethargy and fever, followed within 24 hours by vomiting and usually bloody diarrhea.
The diagnosis of canine parvovirus is frequently made by age of pet (usually under 6 months of age), symptoms exhibited, and physical exam. Other diseases can mimic the signs of parvovirus, so x-rays and routine blood samples are sometimes run to help eliminate them as a cause. A CBC (complete blood count) might show a reduced white blood cell level, an indication that a virus is present in the body. A blood sample can be run looking for Parvo antibodies, but the results are open to interpretation as to whether the dog has an active infection or not.
The main cause of death in parvo infected dogs is septicemia. Poisons from bacteria that are attacking the susceptible lining of the intestines release toxins into the bloodstream. These toxins add to the complications of a puppy that is dehydrated from vomiting, diarrhea and not eating, is hypoglycemic from not eating, and has electrolyte imbalances from vomiting and not eating. The bodies immune system becomes overwhelmed and death ensues if treatment is not instituted early and aggressive enough.
Dogs should be vaccinated for parvovirus every three to four weeks from six to twenty weeks of age, and revaccinated once every year. Some breeds may be more susceptible to parvovirus than other breeds.
Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.
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