Canine Parvovirus - Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology

There are two forms of CPV2: intestinal and cardiac. Puppies are most susceptible, but more than 80 percent of adult dogs show no symptoms. With severe disease, dogs can die within 48 to 72 hours without treatment by fluids and antibiotics. In the more common, less severe form, mortality is about 10 percent. Certain breeds, such as Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Pit bull terriers as well as other black and tan colored dogs may be more susceptible to CPV2 Along with age and breed, factors such as a stressful environment, concurrent infections with bacteria, parasites, and canine coronavirus increase a dog's risk of severe infection. Dogs who catch Parvovirus usually die from the dehydration it causes or secondary infection rather than the virus itself.