RSPCA Victoria is urging Sunraysia dog owners to urgently vaccinate their dogs against canine parvovirus (CPV) and remain vigilant of any symptoms amid an outbreak in the area.  

Cases of CPV have so far been confirmed by local veterinarians in Mildura, Red Cliffs, and Irymple. 

Speaking about the virus, Dr Bronwyn Oke, RSPCA Victoria Chief Veterinarian said prevention was better than a cure.  

“Early detection of canine parvovirus is vital to ensure your dog gets the treatment it needs and prevents the spread of the disease further in the community,” Dr Oke said. 

“CPV progresses rapidly, and unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated young dogs are particularly susceptible, so if you do notice any of the signs or have concerns seek immediate veterinary assistance.  

“Even better is being proactive about protecting your dogs by vaccinating them against CPV as directed by your veterinarian.” 

Signs your dog may have parvovirus include: 

• Lethargy, or any unusual tiredness or lack of energy 

• Loss of appetite or a disinterest in food 

• Severe or repeated vomiting 

• Diarrhea, often with blood in the stool 

CPV is a highly contagious virus spread through contact with infected dogs or their faeces, and contaminated surfaces in the environment– such as a local park, shared food or water bowls, or even your own yard – where it can survive for many months. 

Dr Lauren Roberts Ph.D., RSPCA Victoria Community Outreach Manager, agreed, and said vaccinating your dog to protect against canine parvovirus can really make a difference. 

“When our Mildura Loves Pets Program was running from 2021 to 2023 we saw a significant reduction in the number of canine parvovirus cases from an average of 6.2 cases per month in 2020 to 2.8 cases per month in 2023, along with reducing the rate of euthanasia due to CPV,” Dr Roberts said.  

“The results of this program suggests that we had reduced the rates of canine parvovirus and improved herd immunity to this disease, however we are unfortunately starting to see the number of cases increase again this year. 

“Unfortunately, once CPV is out there in the community, it is long-lasting and can remain in the environment for a really long time; the best protection for dogs is vaccination. 

“Vaccination for the disease costs significantly less than treatment which generally requires hospitalisation.”  

If anyone has concerns about canine parvovirus, RSPCA Victoria urges them to contact their local vet clinic.