Dog owners warned over parvovirus outbreak

(CNS): Local vets are reporting a significant increase in the number of cases of parvovirus on Grand Cayman, the Department of Agriculture said Friday. A highly infectious disease in dogs that causes severe vomiting, diarrhoea and fever, it is often fatal and commonly affects young dogs and those that have not been routinely vaccinated, but quick action by owners can lead to a full recovery, officials said.

Anyone who suspects their dog may be infected should take it to a vet but they are being asked to call ahead so they can prepare isolation and quarantine before the pet arrives. Owners must also restrict travel with pets until they have been fully vaccinated, received all necessary treatments, and are deemed healthy enough to travel by a veterinarian.

A dog’s annual vaccinations include parvovirus, and those that are current on these vaccinations have high levels of protection against the disease. The vaccinations are especially important if a dog is to be placed in boarding facilities, ‘doggy daycare’, or is being moved from its location.

To prevent the spread of the virus or other illnesses, it is recommended that unvaccinated dogs, including puppies that have not completed their full course of initial vaccines, should not be taken to areas where they will come into contact with other dogs or their faeces. Following parvovirus treatment, pet-owners should also consult their veterinarian as to when it is safe to move around with dogs, or have their pet interact with other dogs.

Only dogs and puppies that are fully vaccinated against parvovirus should be allowed entry into the home of a dog which was recently diagnosed with this disease.

Most animals that are diagnosed early, receive the appropriate treatment and survive the first few days of illness tend to make a full recovery and develop long-term immunity.  Owners can also help by disinfecting surfaces with a diluted bleach solution for bowls, floors, surfaces, toys, kennels, bedding and anything that may be contaminated and is colour-fast or for which colour changes are not important.

Owners should disinfect their clothing and footwear if they have been in contact with other dogs, after walks.

For more information on how to best protect dogs from parvovirus, dog owners should contact their local veterinary clinic or the Department of Agriculture, at 181 Lottery Road, Lower Valley or call 947-3090.