Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) is a highly contagious viral infection that causes respiratory illness in dogs. In this article, our Dallas vets discuss the signs and causes of parainfluenza in dogs and how to treat it.
What is the parainfluenza virus?
Canine parainfluenza is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that leads to a mild respiratory tract infection. It is often associated with other respiratory tract infections such as canine adenovirus-2 and the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. These three organisms make up what is often referred to as kennel cough, or canine cough.
This disease is an important component of kennel cough, developing mainly in the nose, bronchi and pharynx. It usually does not progress to the lungs. The virus targets the mechanism that helps to clear mucus from the respiratory tract and allows bacteria to make its way into the system.
While the respiratory symptoms of parainfluenza are similar to those of canine influenza, the viruses are very different. Therefore, different treatments and vaccinations are required.
What are the signs of parainfluenza in dogs?
The severity or intensity of canine parainfluenza virus infections can vary depending on the infected dog's age and the health of their immune system. Signs of this virus include:
- Low-grade fever
- Cough (either dry cough or moist and productive, and may contain blood)
- Discharge from the nose (can be pus, mucus or even blood)
- Decreased appetite
- Decreased energy
What causes parainfluenza in dogs?
The medical term for parainfluenza in dogs is the canine parainfluenza virus, which is often spread through respiratory secretions. For this reason, the disease is highly contagious, especially among dogs who live or spend time with other dogs in various settings where dogs tend to congregate. Like canine influenza, parainfluenza can be found in areas with high dog populations, such as shelters, kennels and race tracks.
Related to canine distemper, the parainfluenza virus causes similar respiratory symptoms, including inflammation of the larynx, bronchial tubes and trachea, and a dry, hacking cough. Puppies and senior adult dogs with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for the infection. Toy breeds are more susceptible to pneumonia due to thick secretions produced by an irritated throat.
Even after a dog has recovered, the virus can remain in the air for up to two weeks.
How is parainfluenza diagnosed?
The vet will need a detailed history of your dog from you. The parainfluenza virus is easily transmitted in boarding kennels, grooming salons, and other areas where large numbers of dogs congregate. It is critical that you provide information about your pet's location within 2 to 4 weeks of the first symptoms appearing.
A medical history and vaccination records will be required. Any contact with other canines, regardless of the environment, may be part of the infectious process, so provide as much information as possible.
The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, as well as diagnostics like blood tests, cultures, and testing of fluid and tissue samples. They may also need to use imaging techniques, such as X-rays, to determine whether there are any masses or parasitic involvement. Once all of the testing results have been received and analyzed, a treatment plan will be developed and implemented.
How do you treat parainfluenza in dogs?
Because the virus is highly contagious to other dogs, your veterinarian is unlikely to recommend hospitalization unless the situation is critical. Instead of hospitalization, your veterinarian may make management recommendations, which most likely include:
- Recommendations for healthy eating, hygiene, and nursing care.
- Recommendations for corrective action for any environmental factors suspected of being contributors.
- Cough suppressants containing codeine derivatives should be used only for long-term, ineffective cough relief.
- Antibiotics for severe or chronic cases.
- Some treatment options may include bronchodilator pretreatment followed by aerosolization treatments.
Is there a vaccine for dog parainfluenza?
Yes, there is. Your canine companion should usually receive the DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) vaccine between 6 to 8 weeks of age. Dogs will typically receive boosters between 10-12 weeks old, 14-16 weeks old, and 12 months to 16 months old. After that, it is highly recommended to schedule your dog's annual vaccinations and routine exam to protect them from parainfluenza and a host of other diseases too.
The parainfluenza vaccine for dogs is considered safe and effective, with minimal side effects. However, some dogs may experience mild symptoms such as soreness at the injection site, lethargy, or a slight fever. In extremely rare cases, more severe reactions like allergic reactions or anaphylaxis can occur. If they do, contact your vet or a close-by emergency clinic immediately.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
