Prevent unnecessary puppy deaths – vaccinate your pet
Puppies up to six months of age are especially prone to this disease.
SOUTH OF JOHANNESBURG – During December 2013 and January 2014, the Animal Anti-Cruelty League’s welfare hospital saw an unprecedented increase in cases of young dogs with Canine Parvo Virus (commonly misnamed ‘Cat Flu’).
Dogs that catch this disease will die, if left untreated. Even with treatment, they often do. Most of the animals seen by the AACL’s hospital had had no vaccinations. A few had only received one vaccination, and no follow-up boosters.
After a puppy has been exposed to the virus, symptoms usually develop between seven and 14 days later. Initially the puppy will not eat or drink and when it does, it will result in vomiting. The stools will change from watery to bloody, with a pungent odour. Dehydration quickly follows and then death.
Prompt veterinary treatment is needed of intravenous fluids, supportive therapy including anti-nausea medication, antibiotics and other medications, depending on the status of the puppy. It is a highly contagious disease for dogs, and is easily spread by people through contact with vomitus and stools, but also bowls, bedding, clothes and other items which have come into contact with an animal with the virus.
Due to the costly nature of treating puppies with Parvo, and the high/increased chance of them dying, euthanasia is often the kindest option to reduce their suffering. Once you have had an infected puppy, the virus will persist in the environment for years. Bleach diluted 1:30 can be used to disinfect the environment, including bowls, bedding and kennels.
As a responsible pet owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that the day you get a new puppy, its first visit should be to the veterinarian for a health check and vaccination. Do not trust people who say ‘it’s had its shots’, if they cannot produce a vaccination certificate which has been signed by a veterinarian. Do not leave it until it’s too late. If you cannot afford the vaccinations, perhaps it would be better to find the puppy another home where it will receive the care it needs. Parvo virus is a painful and deadly disease for young dogs and can only be prevented by regular vaccinations.
For more information, please contact your regular veterinarian, or AACL hospital 011 435 0672 if you are an existing client.
