There is no definitive answer to this question as there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Gatorade helps dogs with parvo. However, many pet owners believe that if a dog is drinking a high-quality water source and has access to a full stomach, then it is likely that they are healthy and not experiencing parvo.
Dangers of dehydration in dogs
If your dog is dehydrated, he will start to pant a lot and appear lethargic.
His mouth will be dry and his eyes may appear sunken. His energy and enthusiasm may plummet as well.
What is happening is that his body is trying to compensate for lost water.
By doing so, the body will draw water from the cells to try and keep the whole body hydrated. In the process, your pooch is also losing important electrolytes that keep his body healthy.
How It Spreads and How to Prevent It
Parvo is spread by contact with the feces, blood, or vomit of an infected dog. Your pet can also be infected by parvovirus present in the soil or environment.
You can prevent infection by having your dog vaccinated. Always vaccinate your dog for this and other dangerous diseases.
You have to seek treatment for your puppy as soon as you notice something wrong, usually the sudden watery, explosive diarrhea or vomiting. You will smell the characteristic parvo “rotten blood” odor.
Your dog will not drink water nor eat, and very soon the pup will be stretched out and down on the ground, unable to get back up. They will become limp, weak, and unable to hold themselves up.
Parvovirus, when left untreated, is often fatal. It requires veterinary oversight. Take your puppy to the vet as soon as you notice symptoms and lethargy.
You will want to call your vet and get the puppy in to be seen as soon as possible. This is a veterinary emergency.
The vet will probably give the puppy a shot and some antibiotics for the infection. They might also prescribe some Reglan to calm the intestinal spasms for you to give at home.
Be sure to follow the vets instructions exactly.
The vet may want you to leave your pet in the doggy hospital. This is an expensive option, but hooking your puppy up to an IV can make all the difference. According to a 2016 study, the survival rate of canine parvovirus (PVE) “may be as low as 9% if no treatment is undertaken but may exceed 80% in tertiary care facilities.”
A half teaspoon every other hour will keep the stomach coated. When your puppy has parvovirus, it causes extreme inflammation to the lining of the intestines, which can bleed and hemorrhage. This can cause death.
Ease the Pup Back Into Eating and Drinking
When the puppy starts getting better, you should feed him very small amounts of chicken baby food. Keep giving him the Pedialyte until he starts to drink water on his own again.
FAQ
Can you give Gatorade to a dog with parvo?
Does Gatorade help with parvo?
Can dogs drink Gatorade when sick?
How do you hydrate a dog with parvo?