The canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs. The virus manifests itself in two different forms. The more common form is the 1*intestinal form, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite (anorexia). 2*The less common form is the cardiac form, which attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, often leading to death. The incidence of canine parvovirus infections has been reduced radically by early vaccination in young puppies. Symptoms and Types The major symptoms associated with the intestinal form of a canine parvovirus infection include severe, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting, and severe weight loss. The intestinal form of CPV affects the bodys ability to absorb nutrients, and an affected animal will quickly become dehydrated and weak from lack of protein and fluid absorption. The wet tissue of the mouth and eyes may become noticeably red and the heart may beat too rapidly. Dogs that have contracted CPV may also have a low body temperature (hypothermia), rather than a fever.
Posted on: Tue, 26 Aug 2014 17:22:08 +0000
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