Age: 8 years
Diagnosis: Canine Parvovirus
Breed: Newfoundland

Diagnosis: Canine Parvovirus

Moby's owners had recently adopted him from a breeder who informed them that the litter of puppies had been exposed to Canine Parvovirus, a serious and highly contagious virus that attacks the gastrointestinal tract of puppies and dogs. Although initial tests performed shortly after being exposed to the virus came up negative, Moby later began vomiting and developed diarrhea. He was admitted to Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care for emergency care and this time tested positive for the Parvovirus.

Moby spent six days in the hospital in critical condition on IV fluids. He received multiple plasma transfusions in addition to intravenous antibiotics, anti-viral medications, medications to control vomiting, and pain medications. After the most critical week of his young life, Moby made a complete recovery and is on his way to a full, healthy life.

Summary:
The Parvovirus causes a life-threatening illness in dogs. However, Moby was lucky; his owners were proactive in bringing him to the vet to be checked when he first became sick, which meant his disease was diagnosed in the early stages. Moby also received 24-hour patient care, which allowed our veterinarians and technicians to observe his condition continually and administer medications frequently. Our in-house laboratory allowed us to monitor blood and protein levels to determine if and when transfusions were needed.

Because Parvovirus is contagious, Moby was cared for in our Isolation Ward for his own well being and for that of the rest of our hospitalized patients. Today, Moby is fully recovered and is a happy and normal dog. In fact, his owners plan on returning the favor and will be enrolling Moby in the Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care Blood Donor Program so he can help other puppies and dogs in need.