The BC SPCA held a special free vaccination clinic on January 22 in Oppenheimer Park after four adult (unvaccinated) dogs were confirmed to have died from parvovirus in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious and often deadly virus affecting dogs, with unvaccinated puppies being particularly vulnerable.
“A building manager in the area reached out to the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline with concerns about a number of sick animals in their building,” explains Dr. Kyla Townsend, veterinarian, BC SPCA. “As soon as it was confirmed that we were dealing with a possible canine parvovirus outbreak, BC SPCA Vancouver Animal Hospital teams jumped right into planning a free vaccination clinic so vulnerable dogs and puppies could be protected from the virus.”
Dr. Townsend and a veterinary assistant from the BC SPCA’s Vancouver Animal Hospital volunteered to organize and attend the clinic, administering vaccines to a total of 92 puppies and adult dogs. They were also assisted by a volunteer veterinarian and two volunteer veterinary technicians from the community. The vaccinations were generously donated by Zoetis, the global animal health vendor the BC SPCA works with for vaccinations, dewormers and other pharmaceuticals.
Pet guardians were also alerted to and encouraged to monitor for the signs of parvovirus, which include:
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- severe, often bloody, diarrhea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain and bloating
- fever or low body temperature (hypothermia)
It is important for animal guardians to know that persistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock.
Townsend adds, “Anyone whose dog or puppy is showing these symptoms should seek veterinary help right away. Early treatment for parvovirus is critical for recovery.”