Thursday, March 28, 2024

Multiple dogs succumb to parvovirus infection in Sooke

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Veterinarians in Sooke have issued a warning to pet owners after multiple dogs have contracted canine parvovirus – an often fatal disease that has already taken eight puppy lives on Vancouver Island.

According to a CTV News report, Sooke Veterinary Hospital has seen 11 cases of parvovirus in the last month, which is significant because they usually only deal with one case per year.

Causes

Parvovirus most commonly manifests itself as a gastrointestinal disease, and is an extremely contagious infection which spreads through contact with canine feces.

Puppies that have not been fully vaccinated are the most at risk of contracting the infection. They are not immune to it until a week after their second vaccination.

Symptoms

If your dog is healthy and has been regularly vaccinated, you have nothing to worry about. But if you suspect that they may be susceptible to contract the disease, look out for these symptoms:

  • Severe, bloody diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Severe weight loss

The best preventive measure is to make sure your furry best friend has been fully vaccinated, and if not, keep them in your home and yard, and away from other dogs.

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Brishti Basu
Former Senior Staff Writer and Content Manager at Victoria Buzz.

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