Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Evaluation of mortality rate and predictors of outcome in dogs receiving outpatient treatment for parvoviral enteritis.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 2017
- Authors:
- Sarpong, Kathryn J et al.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
This study looked at 130 dogs diagnosed with parvoviral enteritis, a serious intestinal infection, who were treated at home instead of in a hospital. Out of these dogs, 97 survived for at least three days after their diagnosis, while 33 did not, resulting in a 25% mortality rate. The study found that certain breeds, like Chihuahuas and German Shepherds, and male dogs were more likely to be affected. Dogs that received a special calorie supplement every few hours had a lower survival rate, but there was no significant difference in survival based on age, weight, or sex. Overall, the findings highlight the risks of treating parvoviral enteritis at home, especially for owners who may not be able to afford hospitalization.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine mortality rates and prognostic factors for dogs with parvoviral enteritis receiving outpatient treatment. DESIGN Retrospective case series and case-control study. ANIMALS 130 client-owned dogs with a diagnosis of parvoviral enteritis between August 1, 2012, and January 31, 2015, that were treated with outpatient care. PROCEDURES Medical records were reviewed and data extracted regarding dog age, body weight, breed, and vaccination history; treatments administered; and short-term (≥ 3 day) outcome (determined via telephone call with owner). Treatments were administered according to clinician preference. Mortality rates were calculated overall and for various signalment and treatment groupings and compared. RESULTS 97 (75%) dogs survived and 33 (25%) dogs failed to survive for ≥ 3 days after initial diagnosis of parvoviral enteritis. Compared with distributions in the general hospital population, Chihuahuas, German Shepherd Dogs, pit bull-type dogs, and males were overrepresented. No significant difference was identified between survivors and nonsurvivors regarding age, body weight, or sex. Dogs prescribed a caloric supplement fed every 2 to 4 hours had a mortality rate of 19% (16/85). Most of these dogs had also received fluids administered SC, an antiemetic, and antimicrobials. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Clinicians should note the 25% mortality rate of the dogs with parvoviral enteritis that received outpatient care in this study setting when discussing treatment options with owners of affected dogs who are financially unable to pursue hospitalization.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29035657/