TV news has recently reported that Parvo is on the rise.

Dogs get Parvo virus and cats get a similar virus, Feline enteritis. Both can cause vomiting and bloody diarrhoea leading to shock and death, in severe cases.

It is spread through contact with infected saliva or droppings but is easily vaccinated against and is part of the standard vaccination schedule. Pups and kittens have a course of 2 or 3 vaccines to ensure rapid and good immunity. Because Parvo and Feline enteritis are highly infectious, vaccinations should be repeated every 1 to 3 years, depending on your pet’s needs and Veterinary advice.

Vaccinated pets may still suffer from Parvo or Feline enteritis but the symptoms are likely to be mild.

Pet owners in some areas have low rates of participation in pet vaccination and it is usually these areas where the outbreaks occur. To some extent Parvo becomes a community problem in these areas.

Parvo can remain in the soil for over two years so rental properties may be a source of infection for new tenants’ pets. Certain breeds such as Rottweilers appear to be more susceptible to Parvo virus than others.

If your dog has an-up-to-date vaccination, though, the chances of him contracting Parvo locally are small.

 

 

Dr. Jackie Geiger BVSc hons PhD MACVSc BA RPN

Veterinary Surgeon