Parvovirus: 8 Things Every Dog Owner Should Know

And How Mission Animal Hospital Offers Hope Through Affordable Treatment Options

Parvovirus—commonly called parvo—is a word no dog owner ever wants to hear. It's a fast-moving, highly contagious virus that can be deadly if not treated quickly. At Mission Animal Hospital, we see firsthand how devastating this illness can be—but we also see the hope that comes with early action and accessible care.

Here are 8 things every dog owner should know about parvo—and how Mission is helping more pets survive it through compassionate, affordable treatment.

1. Parvo is Extremely Contagious

Parvo spreads through infected feces and contaminated surfaces. Even a walk through a park or on a sidewalk where an infected dog has been can expose your pet.

2. Puppies Are Most at Risk

Dogs of any age can get parvo, but puppies under 6 months old are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing and may not be fully vaccinated.

3. Symptoms Progress Quickly

Signs include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and bloody diarrhea. Dehydration sets in rapidly, so immediate veterinary care is critical.

4. It's Often Deadly Without Treatment

Parvo attacks the intestinal lining, causing severe illness. Without intervention, the virus can be fatal—especially in young puppies.

5. It’s Preventable with Vaccination

The good news? Parvo is preventable. Puppies should begin a vaccination series, for most puppies the DAPP combination vaccine, at 6–8 weeks old, with boosters every few weeks until they’re about 16–20 weeks old.

6. Parvo Testing Is Quick and Affordable at Mission

We offer fast, in-house testing to confirm parvo in minutes—so treatment can begin without delay.

7. Hospitalization Isn’t the Only Option

The gold standard for parvo care is 24/7 hospitalization with IV fluids and intensive monitoring. The cost of this care can reach $10,000 or more quickly. For many families, this cost is simply out of reach and their other option is humane euthanasia for their sick puppy. 

At Mission Animal Hospital, we meet families where they are. Our outpatient parvo protocol delivers lifesaving treatment at a fraction of the cost of inpatient care. Each day, sick puppies come to us for fluids, medications, anti-nausea injections, and supportive care—then return home with detailed instructions and follow-up. 

8. You Can Help Us Save More Puppies

Your donations help us vaccinate puppies before they’re exposed, offer affordable parvo testing and treatment, and keep families together—even in the face of a medical emergency.

This article was partially generated with assistance from Microsoft CoPilot and reviewed by Mission Animal Hospital Director.