The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has sent out a serious warning to pet owners to have their pets vaccinated against the deadly Parvovirus after cases increased over the last week.
According to the SPCA, their hospital recorded a significant increase in the number of Parvovirus cases as 43 cases were diagnosed in last week of which 11 cases were diagnosed on Sunday, October 24. The SPCA said in a statement that 2 out of the 11 cases seen on Sunday were beyond clinical intervention and were humanly euthanised. The remaining 9 cases are currently receiving treatment.
“It causes an infectious gastrointestinal illness in dogs that attacks dividing cells. The most prominent location for dividing cells in your dog’s body is the intestinal lining or the lining of the digestive system. The disease attacks and kills these cells and inhibits their ability to absorb nutrients or liquids. Parvovirus is seen more in puppies than in adult dogs. The ease with which the virus spreads is what makes it so dangerous,” the statement said.
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The statement also indicated that all dogs and puppies are susceptible to Parvovirus, but there are a few breeds that are more susceptible than others.
“These include Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and other black and tan breeds. These breeds usually are more prone to contracting this disease with reduced chances of survival,” The statement mentioned.
Parvovirus can be transferred from one dog to another through their faeces and adult dogs can be infected with the virus and not show any outward signs. However, if your dog experiences symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and lethargy or stops eating, you have to get your dog checked out.
Treatment
According to the SPCA, the best way to prevent the disease is to vaccinate your dog early. Vaccinations can be done from 6 weeks and consist of a series of two to three vaccinations over some time. Vaccinated dogs should be covered again, one week after the second vaccination. However, the virus can survive for six months.
In the meantime, should you require urgent assistance with your dog, please call 021 7004158/98 or After-hours on 083 326 1604 for help or take your dog to the SPCA clinic for consultation with a qualified veterinarian.
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