Roodepoort/Krugersdorp SPCA manager Mandy Cattanach has warned that cases of Canine parvovirus have skyrocketed in recent weeks.

“While parvo is a seasonal occurrence, we are seeing many more cases than is usual for this time of year,” she says.

Canine parvovirus is highly contagious, spreading rapidly and causing serious symptoms that are very often fatal. The disease is airborne and also spreads through bodily fluids, like the flu, or through exposure to faeces.

Cattanach says the problem is aggravated by backyard breeders and pet shops that sell animals.

• Also read: Rotting waste sparks health fears

“These businesses more often than not focus only on breeding and selling as many animals as possible. They don’t bother with vaccination, which means puppies are born without the immunity that would be transferred from vaccinated parents, which usually sees them through until their first vaccination.

“If parvo breaks out in a breeding facility or pet shop, it is nearly always catastrophic. We often get infected dogs from breeders or pet shops surrendered, and there is usually very little we can do for them by the time they get here.”

She adds that all new animals that come into the SPCA are initially quarantined.

“In addition to parvovirus being extremely contagious, the virus is also very hardy,” adds Cattanach.

• Also read: SPCA receives eco-friendly homes for owls

“It can live for many years in the soil or anything porous. Getting rid of the virus in your yard can be extremely difficult.”

Cattanach has urged residents to have their dogs vaccinated, but stresses the importance of doing so through a reputable vet.

“We see a lot of cases where people vaccinate their own animals, and it does not work.

“The reason is that there are very specific processes to be followed. The vaccine must be stored at the correct temperature, for instance, or it may be completely ineffective.”