The University of Queensland (UQ) veterinarians are urging dog owners to vaccinate their pets against the deadly canine parvovirus.
This follows recent reports of a sharp rise in cases presented at the University’s Veterinary Medical Centre in South East Queensland.
The centre at UQ’s Gatton Campus, 100km west of Brisbane, has reported 14 dog cases of the virus within the last two weeks.
Canine parvovirus is a contagious virus, which can lead to a dog’s death if not treated aggressively. Signs include weakness, severe dehydration, vomiting and heavy bloody diarrhea.
Senior clinician Dr Josh King said it was crucial that pet owners vaccinate against canine parvovirus.
“We normally see one to two cases a month but in the last few weeks we have seen 10 to 14 cases,” Dr King said.
“The virus is very easily spread and owners can bring it home on their shoes or car tyres.
"Keeping your dog in your yard does not mean it won’t contract the disease.
“It is a very painful condition for dogs and although most will survive with treatment, the treatment can cost thousands of dollars and unfortunately not all dogs survive.
“By comparison, vaccinations will cost less than $100. It is a very preventable disease if you have your dog vaccinated. We urgently encourage all pet owners to check that their pets are up-to-date with their vaccinations.”
The UQ Gatton Veterinary Medical Centre is open to the public and offers medical and surgical facilities for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, small mammals and fish.
It specialises in surgery, internal medicine, ophthalmology and bird medicine.
To book an appointment phone (07) 54601788.
Media: Dr Josh King, UQ School of Veterinary Science, Gatton Campus (j.king14@uq.edu.au or +61 7 5460 1978) or Belinda Berry or UQ communications officer, (b.berry2@uq.edu.au or + 61 7 3365 2619).
