Parvovirus still a problem for local dogs

Parvovirus in the local dog population is much worse than it is in most areas
of Queensland.
The severity of the disease and the frequency with which it infects pups and dogs is more drastic in the
Warwick district.
‘Lucky’ has just recovered from intensive treatment for a particularly severe bout of the disease.
He has been a patient at the new Condamine Veterinary Clinic. He had been ill for two weeks, receiving multiple medications including intravenous fluids and a blood transfusion.
Consulting veterinarian Cathy Marlton said, “Despite the odds, ‘Lucky’ is now in full recovery and improving every day. No animal or person should need to be subjected to such a devastating disease. I really wish that pet owners would heed advice and vaccinate puppies early and often.”
Characterised by marked depression, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea and often resulting in death, Parvovirus is a horrendous disease. It is highly contagious, survives in the environment for up to two years and is easliy spread by human and animal traffic.
Fortunately an effective vaccine is available, which must be given to young puppies as a series of injections starting from six weeks of age.
This initial puppy course should be followed by yearly vaccinations in consultation with your veterinarian. The importance of prevention for any disease needs to emphasised and cannot be over-rated particularly in the case of Parvovirus.
It is highly preventable and extremely difficult and costly to treat.
Act now and ensure your pups and dogs are properly protected.
For further information, contact your local veterinarian.