There are many strains of this virus.  This virus attacks any rapidly growing cell in the body.  In puppies it usually has a preference for the heart, stomach or intestines.  It causes very high fevers, tremendous vomiting and bloody diarrhea which leads to severe dehydration, weakening of the immune system (increase of white blood cell counts) and eventually death.  There is no shot that will kill the virus to speed recovery and vaccination once symptoms have begun is futile.  Treatment is aimed at correcting dehydration with IV fluids, antibiotics to treat secondary infections, medication for fever, vitamins and amino acid therapy and in some cases white blood cell stimulants.  Each day is taken one at a time.  Parvo virus is a potentially fatal disease.  If no treatment is done, results are fatal.  Treatment at least provides better odds against a very bad disease.

The initial cost of all parvo treatment including initial start up of fluids is $125.00.  Daily hospitalization can run from $50.00 - $60.00 a day.  This cost covers the magnitude of fluids, antibiotics and clean up of the tremendous vomiting and diarrhea these dogs have in a comfortable isolation room.

Most dogs are better within 3-5 days, however, some require a 10 – 14 day stay.  This financial obligation must be considered by the owner before any commitment to treatment is made.  No guarantees can be made on a day to day basis considering the severity and complexity of this disease. 

You will be notified daily of your pet’s progress.  It must be further noted that since these cases require a tremendous amount of time, medications and after hours care, they must be paid for at the time of discharge.