Dog Medications for Parvo

Parvovirus or parvo is a disease that can affect all dogs, but most commonly occurs in puppies. Parvo is caused by a virus transmitted through oral contact with infected feces and can cause serious symptoms in dogs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite and even death. Veterinarians routinely vaccinate for parvovirus during the first few weeks of a dog's life. If a dog contracts the virus, seek medical treatment to be sure the dog makes a full recovery.

  1. Intravenous Fluids

    • Dogs that contract parvovirus are often very sick. For this reason, veterinary care is usually required for dogs that develop this disease. According to the Dog Health Guide, dehydration is one of the biggest concerns veterinarians have when treating dogs with parvo. Vomiting and diarrhea are two symptoms that are commonly associated with parvo, and may be severe or continue for several days, which makes dehydration more likely. Veterinarians administer intravenous fluids that contain an electrolyte solution to prevent dehydration. Dogs that are less sick may receive fluids subcutaneously (under the skin). Fresh water helps dogs while they are recovering from parvo as well.

    Antiemetics

    • Vomiting that occurs with parvo can be quite severe. Dogs that continue to vomit for an extended period of time or experience severe vomiting are at risk of complications such as dehydration and weight loss. The veterinarian will often give antiemetic drugs to attempt to control or stop the vomiting. H2 blockers may also help to curb nausea and vomiting.

    Anti-Motility Drugs

    • Diarrhea may occur with frequency, especially in the early stages of parvo. Diarrhea may be severe and may be accompanied by severe stomach pain and blood. Veterinarians usually prescribe anti-motility drugs to attempt to control or stop diarrhea. Food may also be restricted during this time.

    Anitbiotics/Antihelmintics

    • Dogs that develop parvovirus may develop complications such as secondary infections. This is because when a dog contracts parvo, his immune system becomes compromised and makes him less able to fight other infections in the body. Antibiotics prevent this complication and fight secondary infections that may arise. Once the acute phase of parvo is over, the vet may give antihelmintics to fight parasites that may invade the dog's body in its weakened state.