Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)

What is canine parvovirus?

Canine parvovirus, or parvo, is a very contagious virus of dogs. It attacks the lining of the gut, so a sick puppy may not keep down food or water. It also attacks the bone marrow, where white blood cells are made. With fewer white cells, the puppy has less defence against other germs.

Puppies and young dogs that have not finished their vaccines are most at risk, but unvaccinated adult dogs can catch it too. Sick dogs pass large amounts of virus in their faeces (stool). The virus can survive for months on soil, floors, bowls, shoes and clothes, so a puppy can catch it without meeting a sick dog. Parvo does not infect people.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• Sudden, repeated vomiting
• Diarrhoea, often bloody and very smelly
• Not eating and very low energy
• Fever, or a low temperature in a very weak puppy
• Dry gums and sunken eyes from dehydration

Signs can get worse very quickly.

Which lab tests help

The Canine Parvo Virus Ag (Rapid Test) checks a fresh stool sample for parvovirus antigen, a protein from the virus. It is a quick first check. A negative kit does not fully rule parvo out, because the amount of virus in the stool can be low very early or later in the illness. A recent live vaccine can sometimes cause a weak positive, so tell your vet about recent vaccines.

The Canine Parvo RT-PCR looks for the virus's genetic material and can help when the kit is negative but the signs strongly suggest parvo. The Canine Parvo ELISA Test is a laboratory test on blood serum, and the Canine Distemper / Parvo ELISA Test (Combo) checks distemper and parvo on one sample. When other gut germs are possible, your vet may choose the Canine Parvo / Corona Virus Ag (Rapid Combo Test) or the Canine Diarrhoea RT-PCR Panel; the exact list of germs in the panel is confirmed when you book.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) often shows a low white cell count in parvo. It helps your vet judge how severe the illness is and follow the puppy's progress. A registered veterinarian reads each result together with the puppy's signs, age and vaccine history.

When to see your vet

A puppy or dog with vomiting and diarrhoea, especially bloody diarrhoea, needs a vet the same day. Parvo can become life-threatening quickly, mainly through dehydration and infection. Keep the sick dog away from other dogs, and ask your vet how to clean the area. Ask your vet about vaccination for puppies and other dogs in the home.

Testing in Bhopal

Pashupatinath Vet Lab is at C-200, C Sector, Shahpura, Bhopal. Sample collection is free anywhere in Bhopal. From other districts, samples can be sent by courier, by bus parcel or through your local vet; call or WhatsApp +91 88175 01118 before sending. The lab confirms the method, sample needs and reporting time when you book. Reports are shared on WhatsApp, by e-mail and in My Reports on the website.