Dog owners are being warned to make sure their pets have been vaccinated as a parvovirus outbreak spreads across the country.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association is encouraging people to talk about the importance of parvovirus vaccinations with their family, friends, networks, and the wider community.
“Veterinarians have seen significant outbreaks over the last few weeks in certain regions, particularly Northland, Auckland, and Wellington,” NZVA head of veterinary services – companion animal, Sally Cory said.
“If you know someone who is getting a puppy or has a dog, be proactive in spreading the word because vaccinations save lives.”
Parvovirus is a highly contagious, potentially fatal viral disease affecting the dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Those most at risk are young (six weeks to six months), unvaccinated, or incompletely vaccinated puppies.
Parvovirus can be passed on when dogs sniff, lick or eat contaminated faeces, or through encountering food and water bowls or footwear that contains the virus. The best protection against parvovirus is through vaccination, as advised by a veterinarian.
Franklin Vets said that any dog who does not receive their parvovirus vaccine course is likely to become ill with parvovirus, even if kept on your property. This is because the virus is everywhere in public spaces and can easily be tracked home to your house.
It is important to socialise dogs safely when they are fully vaccinated: this includes keeping them away from the ground in high-risk public areas until your vet says it is okay to take them out. Papakura is a high-risk area.
Cory says financial pressures are increasingly a driving factor in people putting off vaccinating their puppy or dog.
“However, vaccinations are highly effective, cost significantly less than the cost of treating parvovirus, and help to prevent tragedy.”
If adult dogs received their full puppy vaccination programme, they should receive their first parvo booster at 12 months and then every three years.
“Seeing animals that need emergency treatment for a preventable illness is very difficult for everyone involved.”
SPCA animal services general manager Corey Regnerus-Kell said 130 dogs and puppies were humanely euthanised due to parvovirus between September 1, 2024 and March 21, 2025.
This was 20 more than the 110 euthanised dogs during the same period last year.
“These are just the ones reported to us. We believe there are many more in the community not seeking the support these animals need,” Regnerus-Kell said.
