Canine parvovirus: A veterinary nursing perspective on treatment and management
Canine parvovirus (CPV-2) is a highly-infectious viral infection, transmitted by ingestion of infected faecal matter shed by infected dogs into the environment. Canine parvovirus can remain active within the environment for a year and is resistant to many disinfectants.
The virus commonly attacks the immune system (bone marrow, lymphatic system and thymus), alongside the myocardium and gastrointestinal tract (resulting in damage to the epithelium of the small intestine). As the virus progresses, bacteria may leak from the damaged intestinal tissue and translocate to the bloodstream. This translocation of bacteria can ultimately lead to sepsis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, multiple organ failure, and death.
Immediate veterinary treatment following the onset of clinic signs is required for the canine parvovirus patient, with the registered veterinary nurse or technician playing a vital role in managing these patients and helping to improve treatment outcomes.
- Recognise the common clinical signs and presentation of parvovirus
- Identify veterinary nursing interventions for the parvovirus patient
- Understand medical treatment provision for parvovirus
- Improved confidence in veterinary nursing care provision for parvovirus patients
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