Wales Parvovirus Outbreak: Signs & Symptoms Every Dog Parent Should Know

A cluster of new parvovirus cases in North Wales has prompted urgent warnings from vets after several dogs required treatment for the potentially deadly illness. Veterinary practices in Rhyl and Wrexham have confirmed multiple infections, and are urging pet parents across the region to double-check their pets’ vaccination records and remain alert to symptoms.

Parvovirus, or ‘parvo’, is highly contagious and can be fatal – especially in puppies or unvaccinated dogs. The virus attacks the intestinal tract and spreads easily via infected faeces, contaminated surfaces, and even human hands or clothing. With cases on the rise again, staying informed is more important than ever. Here’s what every dog owner needs to know: from symptoms and stages to treatment and prevention.

Navigating life with a new pet? Head to littleKin!

littleKin™ is Kinship’s home just for puppy and kitten parents. Bop over to check out expert advice, new pet tools, and special deals—all curated for your newest family member.

Get Free Advice

What is parvovirus in dogs?

Canine parvovirus (CPV), often referred to as parvo, is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that affects a dog’s intestinal tract. Not only does parvovirus in dogs have a high mortality rate if left untreated; it can survive in the environment for months, or even years, in the right conditions.

Parvovirus in dogs mostly affects pups with weak immune systems, including puppies and unvaccinated dogs. Puppies are especially vulnerable to parvo infections during the gap between immunity from their mother’s milk and when they are fully vaccinated at 12-16 weeks old. Dogs with existing autoimmune deficiencies are also at greater risk.

How is parvo transmitted in dogs?

The parvovirus enters the dog’s body through contact with the mucus membranes, then spreads in the lymphatic system and bloodstream. An infected dog sheds the parvovirus through faeces, so transmission of parvo can occur when other dogs come in contact with those faeces directly (via their nose or mouth), or indirectly (by touching contaminated items).

Another way the parvovirus is transmitted in dogs is by being passed along on multiple surfaces, including fur, food bowls, toys, kennels and bedding, and dirt and grass contaminated by infected faeces. A dog with parvo can start shedding the virus as soon as four days after exposure, often before symptoms begin to manifest and before they are known to be infected.

What are parvo symptoms in dogs?

Common parvo symptoms and signs in dogs include:

• diarrhoea, often bloody

• vomiting

• hypothermia (below-normal temperature)

• lethargy

• weight loss

• lack of appetite

• bloated and/or painful abdomen

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s crucial that you take them to the vet as soon as possible, as most deaths from parvo occur within 48 to 72 hours after symptoms begin.

Can dogs survive parvo?

With proper veterinary care, the survival rate of dogs who contract parvo can be up to 90 percent, but without treatment, the mortality rate is more than 80 percent.

How is parvo in dogs diagnosed?

A veterinarian diagnoses parvo by taking the dog’s history, noting the dog’s clinical signs and performing an examination; samples of stool and blood are also required. The diagnosis is then confirmed by lab testing of the samples. This parvovirus test for dogs is essential to begin treatment as soon as they have been diagnosed.

What are the stages of parvo in dogs?

There are six stages of parvo in dogs: the first is exposure, when the dog is exposed to an infected dog, though sometimes it can be shedded within three weeks through their poo. Second is the incubation period, which lasts three to five days. After five to eight days, symptoms usually start to present (see above). The next stage is diagnosis by a vet – it‘s important to get your dog to the doctor as soon as possible if you suspect parvo because it can be deadly if left untreated. Then treatment (see below) followed by recovery during this time, which can take 14–20 days; it’s important to keep your dog isolated and disinfect their things so the infection doesn’t spread.

How is parvo in dogs treated?

Treatment for parvo in dogs includes:

• intravenous fluids to combat dehydration and replenish electrolytes

• anti-nausea medication

• antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection

• isolation

• temperature control to prevent hypothermia

There is no cure for parvo at this time, but studies involving the use of antibody therapies that target the virus are currently being conducted and have promising results.

Specifically, puppies are most susceptible to parvo from six weeks until six months. If your puppy is diagnosed, your vet may put them on an antibiotic medication to combat bacterial infections and will monitor your puppy for additional complications.

How much does parvo treatment cost?

Parvo treatment costs vary but can reach thousands of pounds for all of the tests and treatment, including overnight stays if necessary. 

How to prevent parvo in dogs

The best way to keep dogs safe is to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccines. Puppies should be given the parvo vaccine (DHLPP) starting at six to eight weeks of age. After that, the vet will give your dog booster vaccines every year.

Before they’re fully vaccinated, puppies should be kept away from areas that could potentially be contaminated with parvo, such as parks, pet shops and groomers. Don’t allow them to play with other dogs unless those dogs have been fully vaccinated.

Indoor areas where dogs congregate should be fully disinfected with dilute bleach or other commercial products. Faecal matter should be removed from both indoor and outdoor spaces as well. It’s important to note that even after dogs recover from parvo, they can still be contagious for up to two weeks so it’s best to keep them away from other dogs until after that time has passed.

The bottom line: good hygiene and preventive measures will go a long way towards keeping your dog healthy and safe.

Frequently asked questions

What are the first signs of parvo?

Early signs of parvo include lethargy, loss of appetite vomiting, and diarrhoea – often bloody – typically appearing within a few days of exposure.

What is stage one of parvo?

Stage one is the exposure stage, when the dog comes into contact with the virus – usually through infected faeces – before any symptoms appear.

Can adult dogs get parvo?

Yes, adult dogs can get parvo if they are unvaccinated. If a dog has a compromised immune system, they are also at risk for parvo.

How can parvo be prevented?

The best way to keep dogs safe is to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccines. Puppies should be given the parvo vaccine (DHLPP) starting at six to eight weeks of age.

Can a vaccinated dog get parvo?

It’s rare, but possible – especially if the dog isn’t fully vaccinated or their immunity has waned – though symptoms are usually milder than in unvaccinated dogs.

Is parvo contagious to humans or other animals?

The virus can’t be spread from pet to person, but it can be spread from dogs to other wild animals, including foxes.

Can I treat my dog’s parvo at home?

No. Parvo is a medical emergency and needs urgent veterinary care; without professional treatment, it’s often fatal.

What is the fastest way to cure parvo?

Get your dog or puppy to the vet ASAP – IV fluids and management of electrolytes are the most important treatment. Antibiotics are given to prevent secondary infections.

What food can cure parvo in puppies?

It can be tough to get your puppy to eat or drink if they are sick with parvo. Follow your vet’s recommendation for food and ensuring they are hydrated.

References

MEERS, J., et al. “Genetic Analysis of Canine Parvovirus from Dogs in Australia.” Australian Veterinary Journal, vol. 85, no. 10, Oct. 2007, pp. 392–96, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-0813.2007.00206.x.

Silva, SP, et al. “Full-Length Genomic and Molecular Characterization of Canine Parvovirus in Dogs from North of Brazil.” Genetics and Molecular Research, vol. 16, no. 3, Sept. 2017.

Woodroffe, Rosie, et al. “Contact with Domestic Dogs Increases Pathogen Exposure in Endangered African Wild Dogs (Lycaon Pictus).” PLoS ONE, edited by Wayne M. Getz, vol. 7, no. 1, Jan. 2012, p. e30099.

Lechner, Elizabeth, et al. Prevalence of Protective Antibody Titers for Canine Distemper Virus and Canine Parvovirus in Dogs Entering a Florida Animal Shelter. 15 June 2010.

Burke, Anna. “What Every Puppy Owner Needs to Know about Parvo in Puppies.” American Kennel Club, 20 May 2024.

“Stages of Parvo: What to Expect - Emergency Vet 24/7.” Emergency Vet 24/7, 13 Dec. 2020. Accessed 29 Aug. 2025.

American Veterinary Medical Association. “Canine Parvovirus.” American Veterinary Medical Association.

Cohen, Aly. “Parvovirus: Transmission to Treatment | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.” Www.vet.cornell.edu, Apr. 2024