How to defend your dog from parvovirus this summer
Date published: 20 November 2020
Keep your dog safe from parvovirus this summer by making sure it gets its vaccinations on time.
Townsville City Council is urging all dog owners to take the steps needed to help prevent parvovirus before it’s too late.
Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Margie Ryder said parvovirus cases tend to increase in Townsville during the summertime.
“Parvovirus, which many people just call ‘parvo’, is a highly contagious infectious disease,” Cr Ryder said.
“Puppies and young adult dogs are the most susceptible to contracting parvo, but no dog can be considered safe from the virus.
“It causes severe stomach flu, which destroys the lining of the small intestine and causes vomiting, lethargy, dehydration, severe stomach pain and a bloody diarrhoea. It is fatal without treatment.”
Cr Ryder said it was essential for all dog owners to do what they could to help prevent parvovirus in their pets.
“Check that your dogs are up to date with their vaccinations, as this is the primary protection against parvo,” she said.
“If you have a puppy, it should not be taken out on streets, to parks or to beaches until after its third puppy vaccination. Taking your puppy out before it is fully vaccinated increases its risk of contracting parvovirus and other illnesses.
“If your dog begins to show symptoms of parvovirus, take them to the vet immediately.”
