Suspected parvovirus in a puppy

Recognise the signs

• Severe vomiting and bloody diarrhoea (often foul-smelling)
• Lethargy, collapse
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Fever then hypothermia in late stages
• Pale gums, dehydration
• Most often 6 weeks to 6 months old

First aid steps

1. Phone the vet immediately and warn them parvo is suspected — they will arrange isolation entry.
2. Keep puppy warm and quiet during transport.
3. Do not bring into the waiting room.

While transporting to the vet

• Wrap in a towel that can be discarded.
• Do not let the puppy walk where other dogs may go.

Common causes

• Highly contagious virus, often in unvaccinated puppies
• Environmental contamination (parks, kennels, pet shops)
• Persists in environment for months

What the vet will need to know

• Vaccination status and dates
• Possible exposure (park, breeder, pet shop)
• When signs started
• Other puppies in the home

Aftercare

• Hospitalisation in isolation, IV fluids, anti-nausea, anti-emetic, antibiotics for secondary infection.
• Mortality is high but survival rates good with early intensive care.
• Disinfect home thoroughly with parvo-active disinfectant (bleach 1:30) — virus persists for months.

Prevention

• Full puppy vaccination course on schedule, with the vet's go-ahead before public walking.
• Avoid parks and pet shops until vaccinated.
• Disinfect any contact area thoroughly after a case.

Breed-specific notes

• Higher mortality reported in: Rottweiler, Doberman, German Shepherd, Pit Bull-types — possibly due to immune factors.

Frequently asked questions

Related topics

• Dog vomiting — when to worry
• Blood in a dog's stool
• Dog with diarrhoea — when to worry