Parvo is tough. And lots of people will have anecdotal advice. Bottom line is that it is very deadly and all you can do is provide supportive therapy and wait. If you catch it early, then better. First, it's a virus, but as it attacks, then bacteria start wreaking havoc on the intestinal system. Because the intestinal/digestive area is so compromised, oral administrations just don't cut it. Ideally: IV fluids, injected antibiotics, anti-nausea medication, and (due to virus) Tamiflu (suspension) started early can have an impact (but expensive, and now with Swine flu, almost entirely unavailable).
To provide calories and keep electrolytes in check, you should also give sugar water or at least rub molasses on gums. Sub-Q fluids can help but often just isn't a sufficiently efficient way to administer fluids (plus, very stressful to the animal). I've also used enema-administered fluids containing antibiotics and Interferon (be careful, don't use too much, hold there for a while to absorb). I saved one pup after doing this, but entirely anecdotal.
Another anecdotal experience: Upon recognizing the tell-tale smell of parvo in feces, presenting lack of appetite, watery stool, I immediately re-vaccinated for parvo (modified live vaccine) and started doxycycline (Fish-Biotic). We keep all this on hand. I had just lost another pup to parvo a week earlier. We pull from a shelter in which parvo/distemper thrive, but we like to pull the pups and give them a chance by treating in a foster environment. We quarantine in a separate room, and they are not allowed to go potty in any common areas.
We sanitize with bleach solution, then when better, they must potty in a special area for a full month. We soak down the area periodically with bleach-water hosing. If the animal survives for 5 days, you are basically over the hump. Some breeds are particularly susceptible and it is far more deadly: pits, Dobermans, Rottweilers. Best of luck, but you will lose about 30% assuming you catch it quickly and you do aggressive intervention, more with the more susceptible breeds. Best wishes to all. ... View related article.
