Animal Welfare League QLD issues critical alert over canine parvovirus outbreak in Brisbane and Ipswich

Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) is issuing a critical alert to pet owners in South East Queensland regarding a significant outbreak of canine parvovirus (CPV) affecting the region.

AWLQ’s Community Vet Clinics in Brisbane and Ipswich and are currently treating eight cases between them, with additional patients expected in the coming days.

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects dogs, particularly targeting the gastrointestinal tract. The virus spreads through contact with contaminated faeces, making vaccination crucial for prevention, especially for puppies and unvaccinated dogs aged six weeks to six months, who are at the highest risk.

“Our teams are doing the absolute best we can to manage this outbreak, but the best prevention is ensuring that your pets are vaccinated,” said Dr Sarah Elliott, AWLQ Vet Director. “We urge all pet owners to prioritise vaccinations and avoid exposing unvaccinated puppies to public areas, such as parks.”

The cost of treatment for parvo can be extensive and prevention is extremely important. AWLQ’s Community Vet Clinics are committed to its charter of never turning away an animal in need; however, this commitment places substantial pressure on their already stretched resources.

“Our Community Vet Clinics are rapidly approaching capacity within our isolation wards. Our staff are doing their best to care for these critical patients but the tragic reality is that this virus can be deadly. We implore pet owners to do their part to prevent the spread of this virus by vaccinating their dogs and minimise their exposure to public areas.” Dr Elliott said.

AWLQ encourages pet owners to be vigilant about the signs of parvovirus, which can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

Severe, bloody diarrhoea: Characterised by foul-smelling, watery stools with blood due to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.
Vomiting: Dogs may vomit undigested food and exhibit dry heaving when their stomach is empty.
Lethargy and weakness: Dogs can become extremely ill and fatigued, with puppies particularly vulnerable.
Loss of appetite: Nausea and abdominal pain can lead to refusal of food and water, exacerbating dehydration.
Fever: High fever often occurs as the body fights the infection.

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, isolate them immediately and contact your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, as parvovirus can be deadly if left untreated.

AWLQ appreciates the community’s understanding and support during this challenging time.

–ENDS–

For all media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Caroline Esera
Marketing & Communications Manager
0431 658 934
[email protected]

About Animal Welfare League Queensland
Founded in 1959, AWLQ has become a trusted leader in animal welfare. We provide a safe haven and second chance for more than 10,000 stray and homeless animals annually. To each of these animals we welcome through our doors, we promise never to euthanise a healthy, sociable, or treatable animal in our care. In addition to our shelter work, we are committed to keeping pets and people together by providing lifesaving support and resources to people in need with companion animals. We are known for our grassroots and innovative community-based animal welfare work, including our community vet clinics, the Getting 2 Zero model, the Golden HeartsTM Seniors’ Support Program, and the National Desexing Network.