Vigilance and vaccination key in parvo control

Bluey from Bourke has recieved his Parvo Vaccine. Prevention is better than cure for parvovirus, a terrible disease that is easily preventable with a course of vaccinations. Photo TWH

Dog owners across western NSW are being urged to vaccinate their pets as cases of parvovirus have been identified in Bourke, Brewarrina, and Cobar.

Dr Charlotte Cavanagh from Kidman Way Veterinary Surgery in Bourke said the clinic is currently treating multiple cases of the highly contagious and deadly disease.

“Parvovirus loves this warm weather and a little bit of moisture that helps it as well,” she said.

“It’s a common misconception is that dogs who stay home and aren’t in contact with other dogs are safe. If you’re in town and you’ve stepped in some dog poo, and you go home and your dog licks your boots, that’s how it spreads.”

“The virus attacks the gut lining, causing intense pain and rapid decline. The first signs are your dog being quieter than usual, going off their food, then vomiting, drooling, and very watery or bloodied diarrhoea.”

“It can come on quite quickly, last week we had a case in isolation where the dog was running around the night before and was gravely ill the next morning.”

Dr Cavanagh said nearly every recent case has involved an unvaccinated dog. Puppies need three vaccinations at six, 10, and 14 weeks, followed by an annual booster.

“Parvovirus is so frustrating for vets because it’s so easy to prevent,” Dr Cavanagh said. […]

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