Canine Rapid CPV Ag
CPV is a highly contagious viral disease in dogs that commonly causes acute gastrointestinal illness in puppies. The disease most often affects puppies between six and 20 weeks of age, but older animals are sometimes affected as well. A rare variant of the disease that can be seen in very young (neonatal) puppies is myocarditis (an inflammation of the heart muscle).
Canine Parvovirus Antigen Test Card Key Facts
- Ready-to-use kits for pet owners and veterinary clinics
- No special instrument is required
- Suitable for field testing
- Result in 10min.
Why and how could my dog get infected?
Canine parvovirus can be found in almost any environment, but not all dogs that come in contact with the virus become infected. Several factors come into play in the infection, including the dog’s immune status and the amount of virus it is exposed to. If the combination of factors is right and a dog becomes infected, a specific sequence of events begins as the virus attacks the body.
Symptoms and complications
Symptoms often associated with CPV include lethargy, depression, and loss or lack of appetite, followed by a sudden onset of high fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea. If your dog is experiencing bouts of bloody diarrhoea and/or vomiting, CPV is just one of several possible culprits. Your vet can perform various tests to help determine if your dog is infected with CPV.
What are the treatment options for dogs with CPV?
Treatment options for dogs suffering from CPV Ag involve supportive care and symptom management. Treatment options will vary, depending on how sick the dog is, but certain aspects are considered vital for all patients.
A hospital stay is often necessary so that the dog can receive intravenous fluids and nutrients to replace the large amounts lost through vomiting and diarrhoea. An intravenous drip is preferred because the digestive tract of affected dogs is often compromised and cannot tolerate or absorb what the dog needs. Blood transfusions can also be helpful in increasing low blood cell counts that can result from CPV infection of the bone marrow.
Antibiotics may be a suitable therapy for a dog suffering from CPV, given intravenously or as injections, to help fight the infection if intestinal bacteria have entered the bloodstream. Also, medications to control nausea and diarrhoea are sometimes helpful. Many dogs will respond to medical therapy if started promptly, and those dogs that recover from CPV infection retain lifelong protective immunity against the strain that infected them.