The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has become aware of concern within the veterinary community of early signs of a potential outbreak of a diarrheal disease amongst young unvaccinated dogs on the Island. 

At least three veterinary practices have seen seemingly unrelated cases of that which has been diagnosed as canine parvovirus. The diagnoses were based on clinical signs and laboratory test results. 

Canine parvovirus will usually be seen sporadically, but the Department is aware of at least three clusters, affecting fifteen puppies and dogs, which has caused concern. 

Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that often begins with non-specific lethargy, fever and inappetence, and progresses to severe vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration, sepsis. The disease can progress quickly and be fatal.

Aggressive treatment of these very sick animals is needed. If in-hospital care is cost‑prohibitive, discuss with your vet options for treatment on an outpatient basis as home remedies alone will not be successful.

Infected animals will shed the virus into the environment by virus-laden feces or vomitus, contaminating the ground, surfaces, kennels, bowls, bedding, even the hands and clothing of people attending the sick animal. Thus thorough cleaning of surfaces with diluted bleach or disinfectants specifically labeled to address the parvovirus is needed. A handler may use coveralls and disposable gloves to help control infection.

The sick animals seen thus far have been generally young puppies to adolescent dogs under one year of age, either unvaccinated or with an unclear vaccination history. Also included amongst vulnerable animals are puppies too young for vaccinations themselves, having been born to unvaccinated dams.

Parvovirus is included in the core vaccines for puppies and young dogs and the Department’s message to dog owners is clear:

·This is a preventable disease.

·Have your puppies and dogs appropriately vaccinated at the veterinary service provider of your choice.

·Young puppies which have not completed their puppy vaccinations should not be taken to public areas where other dogs frequent.

·Breeders must ensure good health and appropriate vaccination of dams.

·New owners of puppies should enquire about the vaccination history of the dam and of their puppy. Ask about the wellbeing of the entire litter.

·If your dog becomes ill, seek veterinary attention.

The canine parvovirus is generally species-specific. Humans are not susceptible to the virus, but poor hygiene will lead to spreading the virus and exposing additional dogs. 

Cats are generally not susceptible to the canine parvovirus, most often showing only mild signs of disease. However, cats are very susceptible to their own type of parvovirus, known as feline parvovirus or feline panleukopenia.

Beyond the health issue discussed here, the Department reminds the public that a responsible breeder will provide you with a licence and a registered microchip for the animal. 

You should be cautious about accepting a dog that does not come with these items, as the legality of the animal becomes questionable.

Contact Animal Control at 239-2327 oranimals@gov.bm with your questions.