Alarming Number of Parvovirus Cases

 

It is important to maintain your pet's vaccination program

The Lost Dogs' Home Veterinary Clinic has seen an unprecedented number of parvovirus cases over the past two weeks. Over twelve cases have presented at the Clinic requiring immediate treatment.

Parvovirus is a potentially fatal virus that affects dogs causing bloody vomiting and diarrhea. It can also cause fatal cardiac problems in puppies. The resistant virus is transmitted through the environment via dog faeces and can remain infective for months or even years.

The virus occurs from time to time with sporadic outbreaks more common in spring and winter.

The Lost Dogs' Home’s Head Veterinarian, Dr Larry Colson, says there is no obvious explanation for the recent outbreak of the virus.

“There is no clear scientific explanation for the current prevalence of the disease. We can only stress that owners make sure their dogs are up to date with their vaccination schedule. Prevention is the best treatment for this virus,” said Dr Colson.

Parvovirus cannot be destroyed with common household disinfectants. If a dog presents with parvo-like symptoms, they need to be admitted to a veterinary hospital and given intravenous fluids, antibiotics and pain killers. This disease is not transferable to humans.

All stray animals admitted to The Lost Dogs' Home animal shelter are immediately vaccinated against parvovirus, as well as other canine disease, as a precaution.

“If your dog shows symptoms of parvovirus, consult a vet immediately. The dog will most likely require admission into a veterinary hospital,” said Dr Colson.

The Lost Dogs' Home offers vaccinations against parvovirus. Pet owners can make an appointment or discuss their dog’s vaccination history by calling the Clinic on 9329 2755.

The Lost Dogs’ Home cares for 10,000 stray and abandoned dogs every year. Our Veterinary Clinic treats and nurses many of these dogs back to health after they have been lost, injured or sick. We rely greatly on the generosity of people like you to provide veterinary services, including parvovirus vaccinations, to help the dogs in our care have a second chance at life. To donate click here.

You can read a Herald Sun article on the topic at Virus fear spreads to dog population in Victoria.