Deadly dog virus parvovirus on the rise in Australia

The virus is spreading in Australia, and killed 21 dogs last month.

Dog owners have been warned after confirmed outbreaks of a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus.

Cases of canine parvovirus (parvo) have been detected in the northern and western Adelaide suburbs of Andrews Farm, Elizabeth Grove, Elizabeth South and Seaton.

The virus most commonly affects unvaccinated dogs.

There are an estimated 20,000 parvo cases in Australia each year, with about half being fatal.

The RSPCA has urged dog owners to make sure their pooches have been vaccinated, and to watch for signs of the virus – which include vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhoea.

“RSPCA is also reminding dog owners that parvovirus progresses rapidly,” the group said.

“If you notice any of the above signs in your dog or puppy’s behaviour, seek immediate veterinary assistance.”

The warning comes after 21 dogs were euthanised. Picture: Getty

In October, Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council in NSW made the tough decision to euthanise 21 dogs after parvo was found in an animal management facility.

“Canine parvovirus is a very serious disease that spread rapidly between dogs at the facility,” the council, in the Southern Tablelands, said at the time.

“The facility is not an animal hospital and with veterinary advice and attendance, we made the difficult but necessary decision to have all 21 dogs euthanised.”

Senior Vet, Dr Fauve Buckley said to Nikolai Beilharz, told the ABC that the rising cost of living may be contributing to a rise in the virus.

“We’re seeing a lot more people that are struggling to do the basics like feeding their dog,” she said.

“If you don’t have that extra cash around … you prioritise putting that towards other things, other than your pet”.