Canine parvovirus detected in Perth suburbs prompts health warning

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 05:02 · Archive

Canine parvovirus has been detected in Balcatta and surrounding areas of Perth, with a local vet clinic introducing protective measures.

Canine parvovirus has been detected in Balcatta and surrounding suburbs of Perth. Karrinyup Small Animal Hospital issued a warning on Tuesday about the highly contagious virus and introduced protective measures for animals visiting the clinic.

The virus attacks a dog's gastrointestinal tract and immune system, causing severe vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are particularly vulnerable. The virus spreads through contact with infected dogs, their faeces and contaminated surfaces, and can survive in the environment for extended periods.

The clinic will assess and test dogs outside the building while staff wear full personal protective equipment. Dog owners showing symptoms including lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea have been asked to call ahead before arriving rather than entering the clinic. Cases were also confirmed at Wanneroo Animal Care Centre in late September. About 20,000 cases of canine parvovirus are reported in Australia each year.

How it is being reported

• Canine parvovirus warning for Perth dog owners after cases detected in Balcatta and surrounding suburbsDog owners are being urged to watch for signs of a potentially deadly virus after canine parvovirus was detected in Balcatta and surrounding suburbs.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 04:36
• Canine parvovirus warning for Perth dog owners after cases detected in Balcatta and surrounding suburbsDog owners are being urged to watch for signs of a potentially deadly virus after canine parvovirus was detected in Balcatta and surrounding suburbs.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 04:36

In this story: Karrinyup Small Animal Hospital · Wanneroo Animal Care Centre · Balcatta · Perth

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