Can parvo virus be treated?

jkoch

By Dr. John Koch

Question: I have had several bad experiences with puppies that had parvo. Why is parvo so deadly and is there some key to dealing with it?

Answer: Parvo is the name of one of several intestinal viruses. These viruses all attack the lining of the intestine and produce similar symptoms of not eating, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. The damage done depends upon a number of factors; however, for the most part the strength of the virus and the strength of the patient determine the outcome.

The lining of the intestine is very delicate. It is capable of selectively absorbing digested nutrients while rejecting naturally produced poisons, wastes and toxins. These harmful products are passed out of the body in the stool. When viruses attack the intestinal lining, the lining frequently dies and is lost producing an ulcerated area that bleeds. If enough of the lining is lost, bleeding can be quite extensive. The animal's body not only loses blood and nutrients, but the poisons normally rejected are now absorbed into the blood stream. The result of this process is a condition called endotoxic shock. When endotoxic shock is severe, it is usually fatal.

There is nothing that can be given to kill the virus. The virus must run its course. Treatment is designed to support the patient and help it maintain its strength. Medications are administered to maintain hydration and to control vomiting and diarrhea. If the damage to the intestine is not too extensive treatment can make the difference between life and death. However, if the virus does severe damage, the results are almost always disappointing.

The best treatment for parvo and its relative viruses is prevention in the form of vaccination. Puppies are the most susceptible and should begin their vaccination series at 6 weeks of age. Faithfully follow the recommended schedule of vaccinations until they are completed.

Dr. Koch is a Cape Girardeau veterinarian.