Parvovirus (or parvo) is a highly contagious and life-threatening virus in dogs. The virus attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea, a lack of energy and loss of appetite. The virus also disrupts a dog’s immune system by attacking the animal’s bone marrow where white blood cells are produced.

The extremely hardy virus spreads through contact with contaminated feces, and even indirect contact can spread the disease. Veterinarians recommend that all owners vaccinate their dogs against parvo—the only effective way to prevent the disease.

“Vaccination is absolutely paramount,” said Dr. Karen Sheehan, a veterinarian and clinical instructor at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at USask.

The parvo vaccination process includes an initial three doses over eight weeks followed by a booster shot one year later and then every three years afterward. Until dogs are fully vaccinated (two weeks after their third shot), owners should avoid taking their pets to dog parks and other high-traffic environments.

“Puppies get antibodies from their mothers through colostrum (mother’s first milk), but those fade over time,” said Sheehan. “We vaccinate up to 16 or 20 weeks to make sure the puppy’s immune system responds once maternal protection drops off. There’s no easy way to know when that transition happens, so completing the full series of shots is essential.”

Griffyn, a schnauzer-pug mixed breed dog owned by Christie Tetreault, was two weeks away from completing her series of parvo vaccinations when the 14-week-old puppy came in contact with an unvaccinated dog. When Griffyn began vomiting seven days later, Tetreault rushed her pet to the WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre (VMC).

“The VMC clinical staff tested her outside, just in case. And sure enough—she tested positive for parvo. I just broke down,” said Tetreault.

For dogs that do contract the virus, early veterinary intervention is critical. Treatment focuses on supportive care, including hydration, anti-nausea medications, blood sugar monitoring and antibiotic drugs to prevent secondary infections. With appropriate treatment, the survival rate is 90 per cent.

After nine days of intensive care in the WCVM’s veterinary hospital, Griffyn recovered and was able to return home. Tetreault is collaborating with the veterinary college to raise awareness and help other pet owners avoid the same terrifying experience.

“Griffyn still loves life. She still loves everyone and everything. And somehow, she still loves vets,” said Tetreault of her dog, now two years old. “But if it hadn’t been for all the support of everyone at the WCVM, my online community, absolute strangers, family and friends who all went above and beyond, Griffyn may not have had such a positive outcome.”