I HAVE A PUPPY WITH PARVO, HE IS CURRENTLY UNDER TREATMENT WITH AN IV, WHICH WE ARE ADMINISTERING IN HOME CARE. STILL I NOT SURE IF THIS IS ENOUGH AND I WANT TO KNOW MORE OF WHAT I CAN DO. HE IS NOT OUT OF THE WOODS YET AND STILL REFUSES TO EAT. ALTHOUGH, HE IS TAKING IN FLUIDS. ANY INFORMATION YOU CAN GIVE WOULD BE MUCH APPRECIATED.
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Parvo is a very deadly and contagious disease. How long has your puppy been on fluids? It usually takes 3-7 days for the puppy’s appetite to return. The fact that he is drinking is a good sign. Since you have your dog on fluids has your vet also given you antibiotics? Antibiotics are not for the virus but to help the intestines while recovering from the “peeling” effect the virus has on the inner lining.
While your dog is in treatment you may try Parvo-K by Pet Alive to help reduce the symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. Due to the fact that Parvo is so contagious (it can live in the environment for over 30 days) I rarely recommend for an owner to take the animal home for treatment. Also, since an animal is likely vomiting it is prudent to give all treatments by IV. Antibiotics, electrolytes, anti-emetics and B complex are part of the protocol I follow and it is very difficult for owners to do this at home.
Once your puppy has recovered, I highly recommend you have the puppy vaccination series completed. Also do not allow any unvaccinated animals into your home for 1-2 months due to contamination. Continue the fluids as directed by your veterinarian and if your puppy does not start eating after being on fluids for over 5 days, I would highly recommend having the dog treated at your veterinary clinic. Best of luck.
Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA