Canine Parvovirus — Parvo — is a life-threatening viral disease that attacks the intestinal tract and immune system of dogs. It is highly contagious, extremely resilient in the environment, and can be fatal within days. The single most effective thing you can do to protect your dog is to ensure they are vaccinated.
At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre, we take Parvo seriously. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Parvovirus?
Parvovirus attacks rapidly dividing cells in the body — primarily the lining of the intestinal tract and the bone marrow. This causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea, destroys the gut’s protective barrier allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream, and suppresses the immune system, leaving the dog defenceless against secondary infection.
The virus spreads through direct contact with infected dogs and their faeces, and indirectly through contaminated environments, clothing, and footwear. It can survive for over a year in soil and is resistant to many common disinfectants.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- Puppies between 6 weeks and 6 months old — by far the most vulnerable group
- Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs of any age
- Certain breeds including Rottweilers, Dobermanns, and American Pit Bull Terriers appear to be at higher risk
- Dogs from rescue or kennelling environments where vaccination history is unknown
Signs and Symptoms
🤕 Severe Vomiting
Repeated, uncontrollable vomiting that rapidly leads to dehydration. Often the first sign, beginning within 3–7 days of exposure.
💩 Bloody Diarrhoea
Profuse, foul-smelling diarrhoea that often contains blood. This is a hallmark of Parvo and an emergency sign. Seek veterinary care immediately.
💤 Rapid Deterioration
Lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and rapid dehydration. A puppy who was bright in the morning can be critically ill by the afternoon. Do not wait.
If your puppy or unvaccinated dog develops vomiting and diarrhoea — particularly if the diarrhoea is bloody — call us immediately on 0113 868 6100. Do not bring them into the waiting room without calling first, as Parvo is extremely contagious to other dogs.
Treatment
There is no antiviral treatment for Parvovirus — treatment is intensive supportive care aimed at keeping the dog alive while their immune system fights the infection. This includes intravenous fluids to correct dehydration, anti-nausea medication, antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, and nutritional support. Dogs with Parvo require hospitalisation and isolation.
The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome. Survival rates with prompt, intensive care are good — but the treatment is costly and demanding. Prevention through vaccination is incomparably better.
Prevention
The Parvovirus vaccine is part of the core puppy vaccination programme at Paws & Co. Puppies receive their primary course starting from 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters until 16 weeks. Annual or triennial boosters maintain protection in adult dogs. Until the primary course is complete, puppies should avoid areas frequented by unknown dogs.
Protect Your Dog with Vaccination
Vaccination is the only reliable protection against Parvovirus. Book your puppy’s primary course or check your adult dog’s booster status today — it could save their life.