Vets are urging dog owners to vaccinate as parvovirus cases surge in Wellington, with four puppies recently euthanised.

A Porirua family’s rescue dog, Pixie, and her four puppies all tested positive. Pixie survived. The puppies did not.

HUHA has recorded at least 30 cases in the past month, spreading from the Hutt Valley into Porirua. Puppies and older dogs are most at risk due to low immunity.

HUHA is providing free antibiotic treatment with a vet referral. Dogs are treated in vehicles to prevent contamination. Owners must return for five to six days.

Parvovirus spreads through faeces or vomit and can survive in soil for years. Bleach is required for effective decontamination. Some cleaning methods, including hired carpet cleaners, risk spreading the virus further.

SPCA Wellington is seeing two to three cases per week, higher than usual. It will run a free vaccination and microchipping drive on April 19 at Porirua College.

Vets and animal welfare groups say vaccination is the most effective protection. They warn the virus can kill quickly if untreated.

Source: Sammy Carter / New Zealand Herald

10/04/26