Killer virus hitting our local dogs
ROSE City veterinary staff are becoming frustrated telling residents to vaccinate their pets as deaths from parvovirus rise across the region.
Several family pets in Warwick have died from the deadly virus.
Condamine Veterinary Clinic vet nurse Tarni Boyce said traditionally there was higher incidence of the virus at this time of year.
"We had a few dogs in very sick over Christmas," she said.
"I can't emphasise how sick it makes them. It's cruel."
The virus, which lives in the ground, primarily affects younger dogs from puppies to 18-month-olds.
Ms Boyce said the best preventative measure was very simple and very important.
"I can't stress enough the importance of vaccinations. It's simple," she said.
"What is a $70 vaccine compared to thousands of dollars worth of vet bills?
"Puppies require three needles over a four-week period, plus an annual booster vaccination."
Ms Boyce said parvovirus could be difficult and expensive to treat depending on the strain and severity of infection.
"Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, not eating and drooling," she said.
"If you suspect your dog has parvo get it to the vet ASAP."
