11/11/2024
You may have noticed a recent media alert regarding cases of Parvovirus being treated in the SEQ area, close to Ipswich.
Thankfully here on the Sunshine Coast we rarely see Parvovirus outbreaks, however we treat many pets via telehealth medicine and potentially some of our patients are in higher-risk regions.
What is Parvovirus?
Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and profuse bloody dysentery in dogs. It can be fatal, especially in puppies under 6 months of age or dogs who don’t receive urgent veterinary care. I have seen whole litters of puppies die from this virus in rural areas who didn’t receive the care they needed in time. One litter was on Christmas Day in my first year as a graduate vet. It was devastating.
How does it spread?
Dogs become infected by exposure to the virus that has been shed in the faeces of an infected dog. The virus is very resistant and can last in the environment under the right conditions for years. So even if your dog doesn’t socialise with other dogs, if they walk through areas where other dogs visit, they could be at risk.
Is your pet at risk?
Pups under 6 months of age are most at risk, and until 2 years of age dogs are still considered to be high risk. It is rare in dogs >2 years of age, but can still occur, especially in unprotected adult dogs.
How can you be sure your pet is protected?
Puppies should receive two vaccines by 12 weeks of age, then have their immunity checked with an antibody titre test. Throughout their life, these antibody tests can be repeated to be sure your pet remains protected.
What about a booster vaccine?
Simply administering a booster vaccine provides no assurance your pet is protected. The only way to check your pet’s immunity is with an antibody test. This provides assurance there are adequate antibodies circulating to protect your pet should they be exposed to the virus.
How can you have your pet tested?
All vets have the ability to send a blood sample to a lab that tests for Parvovirus antibody titres, however some tests are more expensive than others. At The Natural Vets we use modern in-house testing equipment that provides us with a measurable result. This test is affordable, accurate and requires only a small blood sample. This test can be done by a nurse if your pet has had a health check with a vet in the last 6 months. Just be sure to fast your pet for 12 hours prior to visiting us for their blood test! If your pet’s titre is not adequate for protection we will call you to book in a short telehealth consult with one of our vets to discuss next steps.
