What is Canine Gastroenteritis?
The most dangerous cause is Canine Parvovirus (CPV) — a highly contagious viral disease that kills rapidly, especially in unvaccinated puppies.
⚠️ Parvovirus survives in soil for up to 1 year. A puppy does not need to meet an infected dog to catch it — contaminated shoes, hands or grass are enough.
Signs of Parvovirus
- Severe, bloody diarrhoea — often the first visible sign
- Profuse vomiting — cannot keep water down
- Extreme lethargy — puppy cannot stand or lift head
- Complete loss of appetite
Vaccination Protocol
- 6 weeks: DHPPi — Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza
- 9 weeks: DHPPi + Leptospirosis booster
- 12 weeks: DHPPi + Rabies
- 16 weeks: Final puppy booster + Kennel Cough
- Annual: Booster + Rabies
⚠️ Do not take your unvaccinated puppy to dog parks, pet shops or public areas. Until the 12-week vaccine is complete, carry your puppy — do not let it walk on public ground.
Treatment if Infected
Intensive supportive care — IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, antibiotics. Survival with early treatment: 80–95%. Without treatment: less than 10%.
