Parvovirus did not exist in dogs until the late 1970's. Now it is one of the most serious infectious diseases of dogs around Perth. You have probably heard about it because there are fairly frequent outbreaks and most dogs that get the disease will die if not treated. The virus survives for a long time in the environment and is easily carried around on contaminated objects such as footwear and clothing.
Fortunately there is a reliable vaccine available. Every puppy should be vaccinated by the age of 8 weeks. However, that does not always happen. Litters of puppies are sometimes sold after many people have been through to view them prior to purchase. They are put at great risk by the volume of contact with potential carriers of the disease. When it strikes it is often a day or so after they have been taken to a new home.
We have seen many outbreaks throughout the eastern hills and it is definitely an endemic disease that must be prevented. Once dogs become sick, treatment can be quite costly. They are usually in intensive care and in isolation for around three days. Only about 80% of dogs will survive even with the best of care.
Signs of parvovirus include, vomiting, diarrhoea or dysentery, dehydration, anaemia, weakness and collapse. Infected dogs also have a characteristic unpleasant smell.
Make sure your dog is protected. There is a three year vaccine available now for adult dogs. If you do not like to vaccinate unnecessarily, we can do a parvo titre blood test to see if your dog has sufficient antibodies. Puppies should be vaccinated thee times, 4 weeks apart starting at 6-8 weeks of age.
There is a lot more information on veterinary partner here:
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&C=&A=1199&SourceID=42