Although this test is very sensitive, false negatives can be had when testing occurs during certain stages of the disease. There is no actual cure for parvo virus. A dog brought in will be treated systematically. Large amounts of IV fluids will be given for dehydration, a medication for slowing the GI tract will be given in hopes to give the intestines time to heal, another medication my be given for vomiting as well as antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. It must be remembered, that there is no guarantee for the survival of the pet, even with the best of medical care.
Some breeds have a better survival rate than others.
Often, terriers that looked to be dead upon presentation will pull through where as Rottweillers and Dobermans will not. Von Willebraun s disease is a common problem with these breeds. It inhibits the clotting factor in a dog s blood. Without the needed clotting agents, the bleeding from the intestines can prove fatal. Treatment for parvo virus is not cheap.