Use of Real-time PCR to Detect Canine Parvovirus in Feces of Free-ranging Wolves

Authors

L. David Mech, USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research CenterFollow
Emily S. Almberg, University of Minnesota
Douglas Smith, Yellowstone Center for Resources
Sagar Goyal, University of Minnesota
Randall S. Singer, University of Minnesota

Date of this Version

2012

Citation

Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 48(2), 2012, pp. 473–476.

Comments

U.S. government work.

Abstract

Using real-time PCR, we tested 15 wolf (Canis lupus) feces from the Superior National Forest (SNF), Minnesota, USA, and 191 from Yellowstone National Park (YNP), USA, collected during summer and 13 during winter for canine parvovirus (CPV)-2 DNA. We also tested 20 dog feces for CPV-2 DNA. The PCR assay was 100%sensitive and specific with a minimum detection threshold of 104 50% tissue culture infective dose. Virus was detected in two winter specimens but none of the summer specimens. We suggest applying the technique more broadly especially with winter feces.