Parvo Virus in Puppies

by Jamy Cueva
(Philippines)

Skye is a 6 month old puppy. He is infected with puppy parvo virus. He barely cannot stand alone. He doesn't want to drink nor eat. I want him to survive. we already put a dextrose to him. but he removed it. I want to save him. I want the best treatment for him..please

Puppy Parvo Advice from Dog Health Guide Editor

Dear Jamy,

Thank you for your question and sorry to hear about the puppy parvo problem.

Parvo Virus in puppies and older dogs is a stable pathogen which can resist extreme temperatures and common disinfectants. Remember, this virus can remain in the environment for months to years after recovery. Unfortunately, this condition has higher fatality rates for puppies.

If your puppy has been diagnosed for Puppy Parvo Virus, remember there is no specific treatment for this condition. Only supportive measures can help your dog recover and to save its life.

Critical supportive measures and appropriate preventive measures can help to save your puppy's life. Puppies which survive the first 2 – 3 days of the disease have a greater chance of recovery.

The most important part of supportive therapy is the maintenance of body fluids. Dehydration as a result of vomiting and diarrhea is the exact cause of fluid loss. This can be done in two different ways:

1. Administering fluid therapies can be accomplished through the use of dextrose and electrolytes. Additionally, to control vomiting and diarrhea, anti emetic drugs can be added to the fluids.

2. If your puppy is not vomiting and can bear fluid intake, administer fluids and liquid nutrients orally. Do not try to administer nutrients and water if your puppy is vomiting, as vomiting will cause more loss of fluid.

In addition to fluid administration, you should try a natural remedy such as Parvo-K, which will help to reduce your puppy's symptoms and support the immunity of your dog.

The other part of Parvo Virus in Puppies management is prevention. This can be done by providing your puppy an isolated and hygienic environment. An affected dog sheds virus in their feces and if the patient remains in contact with the virus for a long time or repeatedly ingests it, this only worsens the condition. Try to keep the environment clean by disinfecting your dog's surroundings with a quality disinfectant such as Benzarid.

If you succeed in maintaining your puppy's body fluids, nutrients, immunity and in controlling the vomiting along with hygienic measures, the survival rate of patient stands above 85%.