Parvovirus, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease, is a significant concern for dog pet parents. The virus primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs, attacking their gastrointestinal systems. It spreads rapidly through contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects like food bowls, collars, or even the ground in areas frequented by dogs.
In a similar vein, panleukopenia, also known as feline parvovirus, poses a serious threat to kittens and unvaccinated adult cats. This highly contagious and potentially fatal virus targets their gastrointestinal systems and can spread swiftly through contact with infected cats or through excretion and secretion, such as saliva, urine and feces.
The signs of parvovirus can come on quickly and escalate rapidly, making early detection and prompt medical intervention critical. Key symptoms include:
Without timely treatment, parvovirus can be fatal, particularly in young or immunocompromised dogs. The virus weakens the immune system, leaving dogs vulnerable to secondary infections, and can cause damage to the intestinal lining, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
The good news is that parvovirus is preventable through proper vaccination. Puppies and Kittens should receive their first parvovirus vaccine as early as six to eight weeks of age, followed by booster shots every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs also need regular boosters to maintain immunity.
Lauralee Dorst, RVT, CVPM Director of Community Animal Welfare Programs at Toronto Humane Society, emphasizes the importance of timely vaccinations. “Parvovirus is one of the most heartbreaking diseases we see, but it’s also entirely preventable. Ensuring that puppies and dogs stay up to date on their vaccinations is the best way to keep them healthy and safe from this devastating virus.”
At Toronto Humane Society, we believe in the power of preventative care. Our Public Veterinary Services team offers a wide range of vaccines, including the essential parvovirus vaccine. Vaccinating your pets against parvovirus not only protects them but also helps stop the spread of this deadly virus to other pets in the community.
Lauralee Dorst adds, “We’re committed to making sure every pet has access to essential veterinary care. By providing accessible vaccination services, we’re giving pet parents the opportunity to protect their furry family members and help build a healthier community for all pets.”
RemmyRemmy first came to Toronto Humane Society through our Public Veterinary Services, showing classic signs of parvovirus. His guardian reported that he had begun vomiting and experiencing bloody diarrhea two days prior, alongside a sudden loss of appetite and low energy. Remmy lived in a building where parvovirus was present among other dogs, and unfortunately, he had not been vaccinated.
Despite initial outpatient treatment, Remmy’s condition worsened, with continuous vomiting and diarrhea making it impossible for him to keep any food or water down. His guardian, heartbroken and unable to continue his care, made the difficult decision to surrender him to us.
Our dedicated team provided around-the-clock care for Remmy. Slowly, over five weeks of intensive treatment, he began to recover. With his strength restored, Remmy found a loving home.
Harriette and HermannHarriette and Hermann, two 10-week-old puppies, were transferred to Toronto Humane Society towards the end of their battle with parvovirus. After two weeks of constant care and monitoring, both puppies made a full recovery and were soon adopted into loving homes, a testament to the resilience of these young dogs and the lifesaving care they received.
KovuWe’ve been fortunate to avoid any cases of feline parvovirus so far this year. However, we’d like to share the story of Kovu. Kovu arrived at our shelter as a stray on December 4, 2024. From the moment he came through our doors, he was friendly and affectionate. After routine testing, his bloodwork revealed that he had Panleukopenia. He immediately received the medical care he needed, spending two weeks in treatment. Once he made a full recovery, Kovu was neutered—and soon after, he was adopted.
Stories like Remmy’s, Henriette’s, and Hermann’s remind us how vital it is to protect our pets from preventable diseases like parvovirus. Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services team is here to help, offering access to vaccines as part of our mission to ensure all pets receive the care they need.
Lauralee Dorst underscores the importance of acting quickly: “Vaccines save lives. We want pet parents to know that by choosing to vaccinate, they’re giving their dog the best chance at a healthy, happy life.”
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Vaccinate your dog today and prevent the heartbreak of parvovirus. You can book your pet’s vaccine appointment with us online at www.torontohumanesociety.com/vet. Together, we can keep our pets healthy and our community safe from this devastating disease.
This article originally appeared in the Spring issue of Animal Talk, Toronto Humane Society’s quarterly magazine. Themed Advocating for Animals Through Community Care and Compassion, this issue highlights how we support both animals and the people who care for them—through expanded veterinary services, accessible training programs, and inclusive, barrier-free community programs.
Inside, you’ll find stories of prevention, resilience, and equity—all reflecting our mission to build a more compassionate future for every animal.
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