Did you know that April 22 was National Parvo Awareness Day? Considering this was the second year that it was celebrated, you may nothave known. But considering how deadly parvo can be, it is important for pet parents to know about this virus that can have a devastating impact on puppies.
As part of their efforts to raise awareness about parvo and to share some hope for the future, we had the opportunity to ask questions of an expert from Elanco Animal Health. As this group is dedicated to animal health and well-being, it makes perfect sense that they would want pet parents to know more about the risks associated with parvo, as well as what to look out for.
Thanks to Dr. Chris George, who is a veterinarian and an expert in infectious disease for Elanco, we were able some answers to our questions about parvo.
What should pet parents know about parvo and puppies?
Dog O'Day: What should pet parents know about parvo?
Dr. Chris George: "Canine parvovirus, or “parvo,” is one of the most contagious and deadly viruses for dogs, many of whom
are puppies. Annually, parvo affects more than 330,000 dogs, contributing to a staggering 91% mortality
rate without supportive care. However, only 44% of consumers are aware of the disease and symptoms. Their knowledge is often limited to name recognition of the virus and its highly contagious risk, but they
are not aware of the details or symptoms. This would suggest that there is a large percentage of owners
who could potentially put their dog at risk without knowing it.
Elanco is on a mission to change that. To help pet owners be their pup’s first line of defense, Elanco
released the Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) -- the first-and-only USDA conditionally
approved treatment for parvo. Elanco has also introduced ParvoTrack – powered by Elanco, the first-
ever parvo tracking tool. The new site maps parvo outbreaks down to the county level, and is searchable
via zip code, for a user friendly and interactive experience, providing additional insights to help keep
pups safe. Both pet owners and veterinarians can self-report parvo cases as well as sign-up at
ParvoTrack.com to receive alerts with outbreaks in their area."
Dog O'Day: What are some symptoms that pet parents should be aware of?
Dr. Chris George: "Common symptoms your dog may display if they have parvo are diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, weakness and collapse. These symptoms can worsen rapidly, so it is important
to find veterinary care immediately if you suspect your dog has parvo. Unfortunately, canine parvo can
be fatal, especially in puppies. Due to the quick nature of the virus and the severity of symptoms, it has a
91% mortality rate without supportive care.
Although parvo can strike any time of year, late spring and summer are the most common seasons for
outbreaks. Elanco is working to educate pet owners for National Parvo Awareness Day. The observance
is the fourth Tuesday of every April, falling on April 22 in 2025, marking the beginning of parvo season
when dogs and puppies are most susceptible to parvo."
Dog O'Day: How can you prevent parvo?
Dr. Chris George: "The best way to prevent parvo is to vaccinate your puppy. The parvo vaccine is a highly effective core
vaccine, strongly recommended for all puppies. The spread of parvo can also be prevented through
scooping dog poop. If your dog is out in a park or public area, make sure to pick up after them. It’s also
important to spread the word with friends and family bringing a new dog home. Disinfecting your home,
for example, can limit risk further or prevent the spread of the virus.
Other steps to help protect your pup include understanding the signs and symptoms of parvo, as well as
how it spreads. Parvo is easily spread through feces or even on shoes. If your dog is refusing to eat, is
vomiting, has diarrhea or lethargy, call your vet and get them checked for parvo.
You can also monitor ParvoTrack – powered by Elanco at ParvoTrack.com and sign up to receive parvo
outbreak alerts in your area."