At least five dogs in Vernon have died and another 14 have fallen ill after an outbreak of the parvovirus.
Dr. David Lemiski of the Vernon Veterinary Clinic says dog owners should make sure to update their pets’ vaccinations.
Lemiski says two animals were from the city’s east hill area, which is unusual since urban pets visit the vet more often than rural dogs.
Symptoms of the virus include diarrhea, vomiting and intestinal bleeding.
Lemiski says the virus attacks the pet’s intestinal tract, inner tissues, liver and kidneys.
He says parvovirus outbreaks are not uncommon but they are usually not this bad.
“This outbreak seems a bit nasty, a few more dogs than usual,” Lemiski said.
He says the virus spreads by fecal oral contamination.
The veterinarian says vaccination is the answer to fighting the virus but adds booster shots are necessary every two to three years.
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