Prevention the Key to Protecting Dogs from Deadly Parvovirus

Prevention the Key to Protecting Dogs from Deadly Parvovirus

Wednesday 24 April 2013: WELLINGTON  Make sure your pets are up to date with their vaccinations is the message the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) is sending to pet owners.

Vaccination to prevent and protect, the theme of World Veterinary Day on 27 April (Saturday), highlights that many pets’ lives are unnecessarily at risk because they have not had the vaccinations they need to protect them from common but potentially deadly diseases, such as parvovirus.

To coincide with World Veterinary Day, veterinarians are advising dog and puppy owners to make sure their dogs and puppies are up to date with their vaccinations. There are outbreaks of the disease in one part of the country or another every year.

“Young puppies and dogs that have never been vaccinated are especially susceptible to the effects of the deadly virus, but death is the unfortunate outcome for up to 50% of patients, even with treatment,” said Dr Catherine Watson, President of the NZVA’s Companion Animal Society.

“There is such a simple and effective solution to preventing dogs from contracting the disease – vaccination.

“All puppies from six weeks of age should be vaccinated against parvovirus and other canine diseases. Follow up vaccinations are also required for continued protection, and your veterinarian can advise on what is best in your area,” she said.

“Although the disease is often associated with spring and summer, there is strong evidence that autumn is the season when most cases occur, with Whakatane veterinarian, Dr Kim Wiersma, warning of a significant number of cases appearing recently in the Bay of Plenty.

“Parvovirus is highly contagious and is spread by oral or nasal contact with contaminated faeces, a contaminated environment or contaminated objects. It is extremely resistant in the environment and can survive on objects like clothing, shoes, the floor, and soil for months to years.

“If your dog is unvaccinated and shows signs of lethargy, vomiting or diarrhoea, seek veterinary attention immediately. Early treatment is essential in improving the chance of survival.”

ENDS

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