Canine Parvovirus

Similar to the Eastern States, Western Australia appears to be seeing an increase in parvovirus cases this year. The cause of the increase in incidence is unknown. Please refer to the FAQ document for more information.

What is parvovirus?

Parvovirus is a virus that causes parvovirus enteritis in dogs and has been around since the 1970s. There are several strains of parvovirus however the most concerning are CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c. CPV-2a is the most common strain in Australia. Although reported in Asia, American and Europe, CPV-2c has not been reported in Australia. Veterinarians in Australia are reporting an increase in the number of cases of parvovirus this year however there has NOT been reported to be an obvious increase in the number of parvoviral infections in properly vaccinated dogs.

How is parvovirus spread?

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus and is spread by oral or nasal contact with contaminated faeces, a contaminated environment or contaminated objects.
It is extremely resistant to the environment and can survive on objects like clothing, shoes, floors for 5 months or longer. If your dog is unwell, avoid exposure to other dogs and areas where other dogs frequent to avoid spread of the virus. Wash your hands and change your clothes before handling other dogs. A 1 part bleach to 30 parts water solution can be used to decontaminated surfaces if contact is maintained for at least 10minutes.

What is parvovirus 2c?

CPV-2c is a particular strain of parvovirus which has not been reported in Australia but has been reported in other countries. It causes similar signs to the other more common parvovirus strains and is treated similarly.

Who is susceptible to parvovirus?

Unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated adult dogs, puppies who have not completed their course of vaccinations and dogs housed in large numbers in close confinement eg boarding kennels, animal shelters are more likely to be susceptible to infection.

How do I prevent my dog from getting parvovirus?

Check with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. It is most important that your pup receives a full immunization course in the first few months of life, and receives a booster vaccination one year later (at about 15 months of age). After this the current recommendations from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Vaccine Guidelines Group is to vaccinate against parvovirus every three years. Note that some other vaccines require more frequent boosters. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection against parvovirus. Your veterinarian is the best source of information regarding pet health and prevention of disease.

How do I know if my dog has parvovirus?

Clinical signs of parvovirus enteritis includes loss of appetite, severe vomiting, diarrhoea (this may contain blood), dehydration, weakness. A bedside test using a stool sample can be performed at your veterinary clinic which may confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes a diagnosis cannot be confirmed however treatment provided is the same as for dogs with a severe gastroenteritis. Without treatment, approximately 95% of dogs suffering from parvovirus will die. With treatment, survival can range from 65-95%.

How is parvovirus diagnosed?

Parvovirus is diagnosed based on clinical signs (eg vomiting, diarrhoea), a white blood cell count and a positive bed side test performed on a stool sample. Differentiation between the strains is not performed routinely as the treatment and clinical signs are similar.

How is parvovirus treated?

Treatment of infected patients consists of supportive care to correct dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities, fluid losses, control vomiting and prevent secondary infections. There is no specific anti-viral therapy for parvovirus unlikely the influenza virus. Quarantine from other dogs is required to prevent spread of the disease. Treatment can be very expensive therefore the disease is best prevented by ensuring that vaccinations are carried out appropriately.

Can parvovirus be transmitted to my family?

There is no evidence that Canine Parvovirus can be transmitted to humans.