Silent Threat On Four Legs

A concerning surge in cases of canine parvovirus (commonly called “parvo”) is gripping parts of Australia — prompting veterinarians, shelters and animal welfare groups to sound urgent warnings.

What’s happening?

In the northern and western suburbs of Adelaide — including areas like Andrews Farm, Elizabeth Grove, Elizabeth South and Seaton — confirmed outbreaks of parvovirus have triggered alerts for dog owners. The disease is especially dangerous in unvaccinated dogs and young puppies. According to the RSPCA Australia, Australia sees around 20,000 cases annually, and roughly half of those infected do not survive.

Elsewhere, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region (Broome and Derby), veterinary clinics say they are now treating up to a dozen dogs a week, compared to only one or two per month previously.

Why is this happening now?

Several factors are contributing:

• Vaccination gaps — Many dogs either never received the full vaccination series or are overdue for boosters.
• Cost pressures — Rising costs of pet care (food, vet visits, etc.) mean some owners delay or skip preventive care.
• Virus resilience — Parvovirus is highly contagious and can survive in the environment (soil, kennels, faeces) for a long time, making outbreaks hard to control.
• High vulnerability in puppies — Young dogs, whose immune systems are still developing, are especially at risk.

What are the signs to watch for?

If you own a dog — especially a puppy or one that's unvaccinated — keep alert for these symptoms:

• Sudden loss of appetite, lethargy or weakness
• Repeated vomiting, often severe
• Diarrhoea (can be bloody)
• Abdominal pain or bloating

Because the disease progresses rapidly, any such signs warrant immediate veterinary attention.

How can you protect your dog?

Prevention is far more effective (and less costly) than treatment:

• Ensure your dog is fully vaccinated against parvovirus. Puppies should begin shots around 6–8 weeks, then proceed through the full course; adult dogs also need regular boosters.
• Avoid taking unvaccinated puppies into public areas (parks, dog runs) until their vaccination series is complete.
• Maintain hygiene: clean and disinfect any areas your dog uses, especially if the pet has been ill or there’s been another animal sickness nearby.
• Minimise exposure to high-risk areas: places where infected dogs have been or communal dog zones where unknown vaccination status dogs frequent.
• Monitor your dog’s health closely. Immediate vet care improves survival chances dramatically.

Why this matters to you

If you have a dog (or are considering getting one), this outbreak is a reminder that even a loved family pet isn’t immune to serious infectious disease. It underscores the responsibility of pet-ownership: preventive care, timely vaccinations, and being informed. The emotional toll of losing a dog to a disease that could have been prevented is significant—not just financially, but also for your family’s well-being.

Final thoughts

The rise in parvovirus cases across Australia is a wake-up call. While the disease is old and well-known among vets, its resurgence in pockets signals that complacency is dangerous. As a dog owner, your best defence is vaccination, vigilance, and swift action at the first sign of illness. With care and awareness, you can help ensure your dog remains happy, healthy—and safe from this silent threat.