Warning on dog virus

Published 2 Sep 2010 08:00 0 Comments

DOG owners trying to save money by cutting back on vaccinations are putting their dogs’ lives at risk.

Vets say that they have seen a sharp rise in the number of dogs being brought in suffering from potentially fatal parvovirus infections.

The disease is spread through dog-to-dog contact or via faeces and causes diarrhoea then gastroenteritis, causing dogs to become dehydrated and also pass blood.

Vet Kate Marriott, from Kynoch Vets, which has branches in Bracknell, Crowthorne and Wokingham, said: “With the recession, people may not be being as vigilant with getting dogs vaccinated.

“In our practice alone we have had several cases, the most recent of which have been confirmed by testing at the lab as being caused by the virus.

“Sometimes the virus is so nasty it damages the gut and heart beyond repair and despite aggressive treatment can still cause death.

“Puppies, old dogs and those with poor immune systems are most at risk but any dog which has not been vaccinated can become infected.”

Four dogs were brought in with symptoms last week, plus a similar number each week over the last few months.

Miss Marriott said that some of the dogs had been at Lily Hill Park in Bullbrook while others had been walked in Crowthorne woods.

The virus can survive away from a dog for nine months, so dog owners can help reduce the spread of the disease by picking up and binning their dog’s faeces.

It may take a week for a dog to develop symptoms but people whose dog seems ill should keep it away from public places and other dogs and take it to the vet.

The disease cannot be passed on to humans.

Miss Marriott added: “If you are unsure whether your dog is protected contact your vet who can advise you on vaccination. If your puppy or dog shows any signs of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis contact your vet as soon as possible - it could make all the difference.”

Vaccinations cost around £50-60 for a first course and £40-50 for an annual booster.

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This article appeared in Villager 01 Sep 10

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