Sharp increase in cases of Parvovirus due to rain and warm weather

Inverell's Gowrie Vet Clinic, Moree Veterinary Hospital and the Goondiwindi and District Veterinary Services all took to Facebook to issue similar warning.

"We are seeing a sharp increase in the cases of Parvovirus that have been diagnosed in the last few weeks due the rain followed by some warm days.

"Now with everyone being at home it is the perfect time to check on your dogs vaccination status," the Gowrie team wrote.

The Goondiwindi Vet Service has dealt with 14 separate cases of parvo in a 24 hour period, describing the current strain as "very contagious and deadly".

"Please ensure all dogs have received a booster vaccine in the last 12 months. All puppies need to have three vaccinations," the Goondiwindi team said.

As a highly contagious, very serious and in most cases deadly viral infection, parvo causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting.

Gowrie said young pups are most affected, but older dogs can also get infected.

"It passes through the faeces of infected dogs. You as an owner carry the virus under your shoes and bring it home. Your pup/dog does not even have to leave the house.

"Parvo is a fast moving virus and it progresses quickly with affected dogs usually showing symptoms within three to seven days of being exposed to the virus. Parvo can live in almost any environment for months even years," Gowrie wrote.

Time to check your dog's vaccination records and book in with your local vet clinic to ensure they are up to do.

Gowrie Vet Clinic can be reached at Inverell on 6721 2277, Goondiwindi and District Veterinary Services on (07) 4671 3405 and Moree Veterinary Hospital on 67521 444.