What Is Parvovirus?
Canine Parvovirus (CPV or "parvo") is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs. It attacks the intestinal lining and, in severe cases, the heart.
In India, parvo is extremely common, especially in:
- Street dog populations
- Pet shops with poor hygiene
- Recently adopted puppies without vaccination history
How It Spreads
- Direct contact with an infected dog
- Contact with contaminated faeces, soil, or objects
- The virus can survive on surfaces for months to years
- Humans can carry it on shoes and clothing
Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after exposure:
- Severe, bloody diarrhoea (often with a distinctive foul smell)
- Persistent vomiting
- Complete loss of appetite
- Extreme lethargy and weakness
- High fever, followed by low body temperature in advanced stages
- Rapid dehydration
Warning: Puppies can deteriorate within 24 to 48 hours. Immediate vet attention is critical.
Treatment
There is no direct antiviral cure. Treatment is supportive:
- IV fluids — to combat dehydration
- Anti-nausea medication — to stop vomiting
- Antibiotics — to prevent secondary bacterial infections
- Nutritional support — once vomiting subsides
- Hospitalisation — typically 3 to 7 days
Survival rates improve significantly with early, aggressive treatment (up to 85–90% with proper care).
Prevention
- Vaccination is the single most effective prevention
- Follow the India puppy schedule: first dose at 6–8 weeks, boosters at 3-week intervals until 16 weeks
- Annual boosters thereafter
- Do not take unvaccinated puppies to dog parks, streets, or public areas
- Disinfect living areas with a bleach solution (1:30 ratio) — parvo is resistant to most household cleaners
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling unfamiliar dogs
Adopting a Street Puppy?
If you're rescuing or adopting a puppy of unknown vaccination status:
- Get a vet check and start vaccinations immediately
- Keep the puppy isolated from other dogs for at least 2 weeks
- Watch for any symptoms during this period
This article is for educational purposes only. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect parvovirus.