WARNING - All dog owners! Parvo virus outbreak in the region!
We were distressed to hear that this disease seems to have reared it's ugly head once again after a period of time without many cases in the area. It is one condition that vets, nurses and owners alike dread appearing.
Parvo virus is an often fatal disease that causes vomiting and bloody diarrhoea in dogs. Dehydration and weight loss are often marked and without the administration of intravenous fluids death may occur in 48-72hrs.
Even with early detection and provision of fluids unfortunately we cannot always save the animal and even more distressing it is often young dogs and puppies that are affected.
The virus can also cause a problem in a whole litter of puppies where it affects the heart muscle and this leads heart failure.
Diagnosis is difficult but faecal and blood samples may help with this. Often though it is only definitely confirmed by histology after post mortem.
There is no specific cure but treatment of the symptoms with fluids, antibiotics, intensive nursing and general antidiarrhoeal treatment may be successful .
Fortunately the virus can be effectively protected against with your pet's routine vaccination.
If your dog is due his or her booster we urge you to ensure that you keep up with this important means of protection against this horrible disease. If your pet has never been vaccinated or has not been done recently then please contact the surgery to arrange to restart their course.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us on 01772 861300.