Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My puppy has parvo. What home care tips can help him recover?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 2.53 lbs

Hello! Our 3months old fur baby is suffering from parvo. Any advise from your side on how we can help him recover? Already give him a watered dextrose plus medicines which was advise by our vet. Pls advise. Thanks

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 13th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear about Bailey being sick. In addition to what your veterinarian has prescribed you can talk to them about antibiotics as well as anti-nausea medication. Even though this is a viral infection puppies often get secondary bacterial infections which is why we usually use antibiotics. They also tend to get very nauseous from this infection which is why I recommend talking to your veterinarian about an anti-nausea medication. You also need to keep Bailey warm and dry which may mean frequent bathing from the diarrhea. You can sometimes apply anointment like Desitin if his rear area starts to get raw from the diarrhea. I would offer anything Bailey is willing to eat and that may include warmed puppy food or even white rice and bland chicken. However if Bailey is vomiting and unable to hold down food and water he is likely to get dehydrated very quickly with his small size. If he starts to act weak you may try applying Karo syrup to his gums as weakness can be a sign of low blood sugar. I have had cases a parvo that do survive with at home care. So this is not a hopeless situation but it will require frequent nursing care on your part as well as constant communication with your veterinarian.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Bailey! For nearly all cases of parvovirus, hospitalization for IV fluids and supportive medication is ideal. If you opted for an outpatient treatment at home, it sounds as though you are doing everything correctly by offering dextrose water (pedialyte is also an option orally) and any prescribed medications. When it comes time for Bailey to eat, you can offer a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken and white rice (1/4-1/3 cup per day, divided into much smaller meals). Otherwise, continue keeping an eye on your cute little guy and call your vet if he experiences more profuse vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or a loss of appetite. I hope this helps and that Bailey recovers soon!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored