Case Study: Amber’s Recovery From Parvovirus

Meet Amber, a lively one‑year‑old Cockerpoo who recently came to Davies for urgent care after developing sudden vomiting, reduced appetite and bloody diarrhoea. When she arrived, Amber showed signs of shock, a life‑threatening consequence of severe gastrointestinal illness. Thanks to rapid assessment and immediate intravenous fluid resuscitation, her condition stabilised quickly.

Further diagnostics, including faecal testing, identified canine parvovirus as well as Giardia, a parasitic infection affecting the gut. Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease, even in adult dogs, although vaccination significantly reduces severity. Because of the seriousness of these findings, Amber was hospitalised for three days for intensive management.

During her stay, Amber received round-the-clock supportive care, including:

• Intravenous fluids
• Pain relief
• Gastrointestinal protectants and anti‑sickness medication
• Targeted treatment for Giardia

Fortunately, Amber had been fully vaccinated against parvovirus. While vaccination does not always prevent infection entirely, it greatly reduces the likelihood of severe disease—and in Amber’s case, it played a crucial role in her swift recovery. Over the course of her hospitalisation, Amber responded extremely well to treatment, regaining her appetite and energy.

We were delighted to receive an update from Amber’s family following her discharge: she is now back to her bright, playful self, enjoying life again—complete with snowy adventures.

Understanding Canine Parvovirus

1. Who is most at risk?

• Puppies aged 6–20 weeks are the most vulnerable.
• Maternal antibodies fade rapidly (within around 10 days), leaving young pups susceptible.
• Adult dogs are generally protected through routine vaccination.

2. How does it spread?

• Parvovirus is transmitted through infected faeces.
• Dogs may become infected by sniffing, licking or ingesting contaminated surfaces.
• After exposure, symptoms typically appear within 4–10 days.
• The virus attacks the gut and immune system; in very young puppies, it may also affect the heart.

3. What are the symptoms?

• Severe vomiting and diarrhoea (often bloody)
• Rapid dehydration and potential shock
• Low white blood cell count, increasing the risk of secondary infections

4. How dangerous is it?

• With prompt, intensive treatment, survival rates are very good
• Without treatment, mortality can reach up to 91%.
• Vaccination is the most effective protection.

Amber’s case highlights the importance of rapid veterinary intervention and the protective value of vaccination. We’re thrilled to see her thriving again and thank her family for sharing her happy update.