Emergency Care from an Experienced Veterinarian for Parvovirus

Parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening viral illness that affects dogs, particularly puppies. Pet parents in the Lakewood, CA, area can contact Lakewood Pet Vet Animal Hospital if their dog shows parvo. 

What Are the Symptoms of Parvo?

It primarily targets the gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Parvo can also weaken the immune system, making the affected dog susceptible to secondary infections. Therefore, immediate and aggressive veterinary care is crucial for increasing the chances of survival.

Diagnostics

The vet will begin by conducting a thorough physical examination and evaluating your dog's medical history. They may also ask about your dog's vaccination status, as this can significantly affect susceptibility to parvo. Then, to confirm the diagnosis, the vet will likely perform a fecal test (ELISA or PCR) to detect the presence of the parvovirus in the dog's feces.

Hospitalization

Due to the severity of the illness and the need for intensive care, dogs diagnosed with parvo are typically hospitalized. Hospitalization helps ensure close monitoring and immediate intervention if the dog's condition worsens.

Fluid Therapy

One of the primary concerns in treating parvo is addressing dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. Intravenous (IV) fluid therapy is the cornerstone of parvo treatment, as it helps replenish lost fluids, maintain electrolyte balance, and support circulation.

Nutritional Support

Dogs with parvo often have little to no appetite, leading to malnutrition and a weakened immune system. The vet may provide nutritional support through a feeding tube, easily digestible high-calorie food, or a liquid diet to ensure the dog receives essential nutrients.

To control vomiting, the vet may administer antiemetic medications. Reducing vomiting helps minimize dehydration and better nutritional absorption.

Pain Management

Parvo can be painful for dogs, so the vet may administer pain relief medication to keep them comfortable during treatment. Since parvo can weaken the immune system, affected dogs are at risk for secondary bacterial infections. The vet may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat these infections.

Monitoring

The veterinary team will closely monitor your dog's condition throughout the treatment process, including vital signs, hydration, and overall health. This ensures the treatment plan can be adjusted as needed to provide the best chance of recovery.

Once the dog is deemed stable and ready for discharge, the vet will provide detailed instructions for continued care at home. This instruction may include a special diet, medication administration, and follow-up appointments to monitor the dog's progress.

Schedule an Appointment with Us

Even with aggressive veterinary care, not all dogs with parvo will survive. Prompt intervention, a robust immune system, and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan are critical factors in increasing the likelihood of recovery. Contact Lakewood Pet Vet Animal Hospital in Lakewood, CA, immediately to obtain care for your sick pet. Call us at (562) 925-2300 to schedule an appointment.