Parvovirus outbreak in Sasolburg
Animal lovers and dog owners are encouraged to make sure their dogs' vaccinations are up to date.
SASOLBURG – The Sasolburg Veterinarian confirmed this week that there is an outbreak of the dreaded Parvovirus/Cat Flu in Sasolburg.
Animal lovers and dog owners are encouraged to make sure their dogs’ vaccinations are up to date.
Baby puppies and young adult dogs are especially susceptible to the virus. Although older adult dogs build up a resistance to the virus over time, it is wise to get a booster injection every 12 months.
The Parvovirus season usually starts in October and ends in February, but it can also occur at any time of the year.
Dogs infected with Parvovirus will begin to show symptoms within three to seven days of infection.
An infected puppy will often show lethargy, lack of appetite, and also often have a fever. As the virus progresses, your dog will begin to suffer from severe vomiting and diarrhea.
Very sick puppies can collapse and have a high heart rate. The faeces of unvaccinated dogs excrete millions of particles of the virus that penetrate the soil and can live in the soil for years.
Unvaccinated dogs can walk on the ground and later lick their paws and thus ingest the virus.
Even if your dog does not leave your yard, the sole of your shoe can also transfer it to your home from another place.
