Parvo Awareness

 

Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs, but un-vaccinated dogs and puppies younger than four months old are the most at risk. The virus affects the gastrointestinal tract and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact, contact with contaminated organic matter or contaminated surfaces which can hold and transfer the virus such as soil, shoes, toys, housing crates, and blankets. The treatment for Parvovirus is providing supportive care.

 

 

 

Recovery Time Frame

The average length that a patient is on intense intravenous care is 3 days; however, all patients must remain quarantined for 14 days (until they are no longer shedding viral particles and at which point they are non-contagious to other puppies). This means the total treatment length is 14 days.

Average Treatment

  • IV catheter placement
  • LRS – 3 fluid bags with supportive dextrose, vitamin B complex, potassium chloride, and ampicillin
  • Cerenia (anti-nausea medication)Ondansetron (anti-nausea medication)
  • Famotidine (gastro-protectant)
  • Praziquantel (anti-parasitic for tapeworms)
  • +/- Any additional medications