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My puppy has parvo and is lethargic, not eating or drinking. Help!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Hi, I have a 2 month old chow chow and was diagnosed with parvo virus last Thursday after he vomit a lot eating chicken liver. After a day of IV fluid we decided to bring him home. Now it is more than 3 days he is not feeling well. Not eating, drinking and vomitting after we are trying to force feed him or give liquid with dextrose powder using needless syringe. I am wondering since he is not pooping since then nor any trace of blood, he is just lethargic, not eating nor drinking. Help please.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2018

It sounds like your puppy is extremely sick, and parvovirus can take a few weeks for a dog to fully recover. It's very concerning he is not drinking as dehydration is the number one cause of death in these animals. He should see a vet again immediately, please take him into one now. Best of luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on September 12th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Scatter is VERY cute!

If Scatter has been fully vaccinated than Parvo is unlikely. If he is not vaccinated then it could be. There are many reasons for lethargy.

He could be tired, sore, have a fever or about to have vomiting and diarrhea. Since he is eating and drinking I would watch him for the rest of the day. If he continues to be lethargic then take him to the Vet or as soon as he stops eating or develops another symptom.

I hope this helps and good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on January 21st, 2019
The Parvo virus has an incubation period of 7-14 days so even if it was related to that puppy, it would be too early for any signs to develope. The virus is spread easily and can spread on things like shoes and floors. So always holding the puppy and not allowing him to walk around is a good safety measure.
Monitor very closely for signs of Parvo such as by eating well, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. Go to the veterinarian if these are seen. Each vaccine lends some protection so make sure to stay up to date with the booster vaccines.
I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 5th, 2019
Yes, he could have parvo. I suggest you get him to the vet for an exam. Regardless if he has parvo or not, he cannot go on not eating. He needs to be seen by a vet to figure out what is going on.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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