Parvovirus epidemic in Victoria
9 July 2009Whilst the influenza A virus subtype H1N1 (swine flu), sweeps through the human population, it has largely gone unnoticed that Victoria’s dogs are being hit hard by a potentially fatal parvovirus epidemic.
The condition causes distressing symptoms and usually means admission to a veterinary hospital for treatment.
The Lost Dogs’ Home vet clinic has treated more than a dozen cases in a fortnight when normally there are none.
Causing bloody vomiting and diarrhoea, parvo can cause fatal cardiac problems in puppies.
Lost Dogs’ Home’s head vet Larry Colson said there was no obvious explanation for the recent outbreak of the virus.
“There is no clear scientific explanation for the current prevalence of the disease,” Dr Colson said.
“We can only stress that owners make sure their dogs are up to date with their vaccination schedule.”
The resistant virus is transmitted through the environment via dog faeces and can remain infectious for months and even years.
It cannot be killed with domestic disinfectants and prevention is only through vaccination.
Dogs with symptoms should receive immediate veterinary treatment.
on April 8th, 2010 at 9:23 am
Hi Donna
I’m sorry to hear about your puppy,I can’t tell you what to do but if I was in your shoes and I had adopted a pup, I would be writing to the shelter with a covering letter from the vet. Also if they didn’t take responsibility, I would be contacting the local Council and RSPCA. I hope you get this situation sorted out.Regards
Kim