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The SPCA is issuing an urgent plea to dog and puppy owners to vaccinate their pets against the deadly canine parvovirus, as the charity battles a major outbreak across the Auckland region.
Canine parvovirus, often referred to as parvo, is an extremely contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects dogs and puppies. Symptoms include lethargy, severe vomiting and bloody diarrhoea, leading to life-threatening dehydration.
Parvo can survive in certain environments for up to a year, making it easy for unvaccinated dogs to become infected.
While it’s common to see an increase in cases during the summer months, this season has been particularly bad. The SPCA’s Auckland Centre is seeing an average of almost 40 cases a week.
General manager for animal services Dr Corey Regnerus-Kell says one of the major trends the charity is seeing is dog owners who are unable to afford vaccinations or treatment for their sick pets.
“This is one of the worst outbreaks some of our Auckland inspectors have seen to date, and our resources are currently being stretched by this vicious disease,” Dr Regnerus-Kell says. “The majority of the calls we’re receiving are for financial assistance to help treat dogs or puppies infected with parvo, which can be costly. We are also seeing an alarming number of cases where dogs are being left untreated and are suffering dearly as a result.”
The virus is shed in a dog’s faeces and vomit, and is transmitted by direct contact or through surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as bedding, cages, food dishes, or the hands or clothing and footwear of people who come into contact with the infected dog, their faeces or vomit. The only way to prevent parvo is through vaccination; puppies require a series of vaccinations before they are fully protected, and adult dogs must receive a regular booster vaccination.
Dr Regnerus-Kell says puppy owners should speak to their vet for advice, and make contact early to ensure their dog is vaccinated as appropriate.
