Recent experience in the treatment of canine parvovirus enteritis

The latest literature data and the authors' experience concerning the therapy of canine parvovirus enteritis are summarised. Basic principles of fluid therapy in canine gastrointestinal diseases are also discussed. Fluid replacement for restoration and maintenance of the fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance is the cornerstone of therapy for dogs with CPV enteritis. It should be intensive in most cases since patients are often presented in the stages of shock because of hypovolaemia, septicaemia and endotoxaemia. Fluid therapy should be started immediately in patients with shock at a rate of 90 nml/kg/h. The infusion of choice is lactated Ringer's solution that should be preferred over the various other infusions. With this solution it is possible to restore the normal blood pH in the patient with mild or moderate metabolic acidosis. The fluid requirement of a dog with acute gastroenteritis can be divided into 3 parts: replacement fluid requirement, maintenance fluid requirement and the volume of fluid lost by vomiting, salivation and diarrhea. Corticosteroids and flunixin meglumine have a beneficial effects in animals with septic and endotoxin shock if they are administered early. Because of the likelihood of side effects (e.g. gastrointestinal ulceration) repeated doses are not recommended. The use of an antibiotic or an antibiotic combination with a spectrum covering Gram negative and positive bacteria is also necessary because of the high possibility of septicemia or sepsis. Metoclopramide can be used to reduce vomiting by stimulating gastric emptying and inhibiting the chemoreceptor trigger zone. Hyperimmune serum is also indicated to protect the patient from infections caused by other viruses. Its effect, however, will not contribute to the recovery of the dog from CPV. Intestinal parasites may exacerbate or worsen CPV enteritis. If needed, appropriate oral anthelminthic therapy should be initiated as soon as vomiting ceases. Proper nutritional management of a dog with CPV enteritis includes withholding of food for at least 24 hours. Oral fluid and electrolyte replacement is recommended in the later stages of treatment. The ideal diet for the recovery period is highly digestible, contains adequate quantities of protein of high biological value, a minimal amount of fat, lactose and additives.