Guard against seasonal canine diseases

Spring has finally sprung and as temperatures are steadily rising, so too are the threats to your dog’s health.

According to Annie Jungmann, of The Animal Guardians (TAG), cases of canine parvovirus and biliary fever (tick bite fever) are on the rise and she is calling on responsible dog owners to take extraordinary measures to protect their pets against these diseases.

“These are both preventable diseases, however, by not recognising the symptoms, dogs end up suffering the consequences,” said Jungmann.

“Even if veterinary care is sought, the healing process may be lengthy and costly.”

Canine parvovirus
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus which affects dogs but cannot be transmitted to humans.

It is characterised by vomiting and fowl-smelling diarrhoea.

Through inoculation, puppies receive three vaccines to guard against this disease, which claims the lives of hundreds of unvaccinated dogs annually.

For optimal protection, additional yearly boosters are recommended.

“Parvo is transmitted through touch and can survive in gardens and soil for up to three years,” said Jungmann.

“Should you and your dog come in contact with contaminated ground, merely walking on it can cause the virus to spread everywhere else you may go.”

She said that the virus causes agonising aches and pain.

“Should your dog present any symptom related to parvo, it is advisable to seek urgent medical assistance,” she said.

“Treatment will include hospitalisation but vaccination plays a vital role in its prevention as well as the animal’s survival should they contract the virus.”

Jungmann further stated that although the shelter and others like it are is open to assist members of the public and their animals, members of the community should not visit these facilities should they suspect their pet has parvo.

“Due to its highly infectious nature there is a very high risk of shelter animals contracting the disease, which would in effect put our animals at risk as well as incurring astronomical veterinary costs,” she said.

“It is advisable to contact your local vet before arrival to ensure that the necessary protocols are followed to minimise the risk to other dogs.”

Biliary fever
Biliary fever is a result of a tick bite with symptoms including lethargy and a loss in appetite, which require immediate veterinary care.

“Ticks are a common seasonal occurrence with these parasites seeking hosts to feed off,” said Jungmann.

“We recommend that dog owners regularly dip their pets with reputable brands which would ward off these unwanted pests. There are a wide range of effective preventative treatments available at supermarkets, pet stores and well as vets.”

She said for optimal protection pet owners should also invest in tick and flea powder, which should regularly be dusted onto the dog’s bedding and in their kennel.

“Treatment of biliary fever often requires blood transfusions with reserves always being in short supply,” she said.

“Dogs’ blood is universal and we urge owners of dogs, weighing 20kg and above to enquire with their local vets about blood donation. In treating this disease, affected animals may need a pint of blood to survive. Eligible canine donors can donate a pint every three months.”

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