Canine parvovirus (also called CPV or parvo) is a very contagious and potentially fatal viral disease seen in dogs. Most commonly, parvovirus causes gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Canine parvovirus is contagious and can survive for several months (some experts say as long as 2 years) in the environment, and is also resistant to many disinfectants. Vaccination is necessary to protect dogs, especially puppies.
1. Veterinary Q & A: Parvovirus Infection in Dogs
by wsilver on Flickr
Parvo is a common and potentially serious viral disease in dogs. The virus is officially known Parvovirus. Canine Parvovirus is thought to be a mutation from the feline Parvovirus, also known as Feline Distemper virus. The canine version of this disease is commonly referred to as Parvo. The virus first appeared clinically in 1978, and there was a widespread epidemic in dogs of all ages.
2. 5 Things To Know About Canine Parvo
by Mike Baird on Flickr
Some people may be surprised to know that parvo is still around. Unfortunately, puppies and unvaccinated dogs still die from this disease. Here are a five key points about parvo for a quick overview.
3. What are the signs seen with Parvovirus (Parvo) infection?
by Richard Stowey on Flickr
Parvovirus infection is a serious disease that affects the gastrointestinal or cardiac systems of dogs. Parvo is a highly contagious and often sudden viral disease; puppies are particularly susceptible. Learn what the common clinical signs are in this FAQ.
4. Parvovirus in Dogs
by Jerry Frausto on Flickr
Canine parvovirus (also called parvo) is a very contagious and potentially fatal viral disease seen in dogs. Most commonly, parvovirus causes gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Learn more about parvo from Lianne McLeod, DVM, About.com Contributing Writer
5. Is Parvovirus Shed in Vomit?
by Kyle May on Flickr
A viewer asked if parvo can be spread via vomit (as well as feces) after losing a puppy to parvo. Learn about parvovirus shedding and disinfection tips in this Parvo FAQ.
6. Can my dogs spread parvo to another dog?
by Les Chatfield on Flickr
A viewer asks this question about parvo in dogs:
"I recently traveled with my two dogs that are vaccinated. I stayed with a friend who had a ten-month old dog that was not vaccinated. After we were there for two days, her dog got sick and died from Parvo. Could my dogs carry the virus from stopovers at roadside rest areas and given it to her dog? This was a very sad situation and I need to know if it was because of my visit."
7. Disinfecting the Environment of Parvo
® Simon Davison on Flickr
One of the most common questions and concerns about parvovirus is how long it lasts and how to disinfect the environment. This is especially important if a new puppy will be brought into a possibly contaminated area. Read this FAQ to learn about disinfecting against parvovirus.
8. Readers Respond: Dealing with canine parvo
© Miguel Vera on Flickr
Tell us about it
Share the story of your dog's experiences with parvo. How did you cope?
Please note: this space is for your stories. Questions will not be answered on this page. If your pet is ill, please see your vet as soon as possible.
9. Canine Medicine: New Parvovirus Strain (April 2008)
The AVMA released a FAQ in April 2008 about a relatively new strain of parvovirus called canine parvovirus type 2c (CPV-2c). This strain causes the same gastrointestinal signs as the "regular" virus, canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). These signs may include vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), loss of appetite, lethargy and dehydration.
