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Melbourne dogs face fatal virus epidemic
University of Melbourne vets are warning that owners with unvaccinated dogs or dogs with uncertain vaccination histories should visit their local clinic immediately to protect their pets against the potentially deadly Canine Parvovirus. Melbourne veterinary clinics have seen a sharp rise in cases of Canine Parvovirus, a severe gastrointestinal infection which can be fatal for small and elderly dogs.
Dr Nerissa Hannink, University of Melbourne Media Office +61 (0) 430 588 055, nhannink@unimelb.edu.au. University of Melbourne’s Veterinary Hospital, 9731 2000.
Dr Sarah Haldane, Emergency and Critical Care vet at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary Hospital says they have treated 21 cases in the last six weeks. Dr Haldane is available for interview, details below.
“We have recently seen a significant number of Parvovirus cases in dogs aged between eight weeks and 18 months of age. Thirteen patients were hospitalised here and we have been fortunate to save 75 percent. In all cases we diagnosed and treated, the dogs have not been fully immunised,” says Dr Haldane.
Canine Parvovirus affects dogs of all ages, but is more likely to impact dogs less than two years of age. The disease is often referred to as “parvo” and can live in the ground for up to 12 months, spreading from direct contact between dogs and indirect contact such as drinking out of the same bowl.
“The Parvovirus causes a severe gastroenteritis, a stomach and intestine infection, which can be fatal for a dog. The virus also attacks the bone marrow where white blood cells are made, suppressing the dog’s immune system and lowering its ability to fight the disease. A pregnant dog can transmit the disease to her puppies where it may attack the heart causing arrhythmias or even sudden death.”
Typical symptoms of the disease can include a dog going off food, vomiting or diarrhoea (with possible visible blood). Dogs often become weak or lethargic and in some cases can suddenly collapse.
“Parvovirus is often treatable but can require a prolonged hospital stay in intensive care. It is best for dog owners to prevent infection by ensuring their dog is up to date with vaccinations, especially puppies up the age of 12 months. Puppies need to receive their first vaccine around six to eight weeks of age and will need a course of two to three vaccinations before 12 months of age, with booster vaccines every one to three years.”
Breeds such as Rottweilers, Dobermans and Staffordshire bull terriers have a higher risk of contracting the disease. Dogs of these breeds may benefit from an extra vaccination at six months of age.
