What Are the Symptoms of Parvo Disease?

Canine parvovirus, which is usually called parvo, is a disease that normally affects puppies and sometimes older dogs. Parvo kills cells in the puppy's digestive tract, causing severe gastrointestinal problems that become the real concern in parvo: malnutrition and dehydration. There is no cure for parvovirus; it is treated by providing fluids through an IV. There is a vaccination for puppies to prevent contraction of the disease.

Fever

One of the first symptoms puppies develop is a high fever.

Lethargy and Depression

Affected puppies will be less active than normal and will spend more time laying down or sleeping. This is also one of the early symptoms.

Loss of Appetite

Another one of the first symptoms a puppy will exhibit is loss of appetite. Puppies normally eat a lot, so avoiding food is very suspicious.

Diarrhea and Vomiting

The symptoms will develop into bloody diarrhea that has a very foul odor and clear, foamy vomiting.

Time Frame

Puppies will start showing symptoms within seven to 10 days of contracting parvo. This is also the time they will test positive for the disease.

References

• Parvo FAQs
• Dog Parvo Symptoms