Parvovirus on a Budget: The Outpatient Experience

Canine parvovirus (CPV) can be life threatening. Dogs are typically affected between 6 and 20 weeks of age. Clinical signs include anorexia, lethargy, and GI signs; diarrhea may not be seen in mild cases. Physical examination findings include dehydration, hypothermia, and fever.

Diagnostic testing should minimally include parvoviral fecal antigen testing, blood smear, PCV/TS, blood glucose, BUN, and venous blood gas with electrolytes. Treatment focuses on fluid and antibiotic therapy, nutritional and GI support, supportive care, and monitoring. Goals in more critically ill pediatric patients should focus on the 3 H’s: hypovolemia/hydration, hypothermia, and hypoglycemia.

Aggressive fluid therapy is warranted. For severely dehydrated or hypovolemic patients, initial shock doses of a balanced crystalloid at 30 to 45 mL/kg IV or IO should be used. Potassium and dextrose supplementation is usually needed; BG and electrolytes should be carefully monitored. Colloids may be given to maintain colloid osmotic pressure above 15 mm Hg. Careful temperature regulation is necessary; hypothermia can lead to bradycardia and ileus. ß-lactam antimicrobials are considered the safest choice; metronidazole may be used with a prolonged dosage interval. Antiemetics are also warranted.

A recent study described a modified outpatient protocol for CPV patients. Based on survival results in the modified outpatient group (80%) as compared with the inpatient group (90%), this protocol may be considered where financial limitations exist; however, client communication and compliance are imperative.

Prognosis for CPV patients is fair to good with treatment. However, CPV is easily prevented with appropriate client education and vaccination.