Relationship between some risk factors affecting the occurrence of canine parvovirus disease in dogs: a case-control study

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is one of the most contagious viral agent's causing acute enteritis in young canines with high mortality rate. This study was conducted to investigate the risk factors associated with the occurrence of CPV in dogs using a matched case-control method. The target population was dogs under one year of age referred to veterinary clinics located in South, North, and Razavi Khorasan provinces. The case group (100 dogs) had clinical symptoms of CPV disease and positive PCR test, the control group (100 dogs) had no clinical symptoms, were healthy and the PCR test was negative. Statistical analysis was performed using a multivariable logistic regression model using SPSS software. Based on the obtained results, it was determined that large breeds have a higher chance of CPV than small breeds (OR = 2.56, P = 0.004). Lack of vaccination is a risk factor in the occurrence of CPV with an equal odds ratio (OR = 2.63, P = 0.002). Dogs with homemade food had a lower chance of disease (OR = 0.26, P = 0.01), and the disease was significantly higher in shelter dogs than in domestic dogs (OR = 9.89, P = 0.0001). Dogs that were in contact with other dogs also had a higher chance of developing CPV than dogs that had no contact (OR = 3.01, P = 0.001). Therefore, the awareness of the owners regarding the vaccination of dogs at the appropriate time and preventive care regarding the interactions of dogs is essential to prevent CPV.