A dangerous new outbreak of a virus has caused a leading vet in Dublin to urge pet owners to be very careful.
MyVet has issued the warning in the wake of several confirmed cases of parvovirus, a viral infection which is extremely contagious and often leads to death if left untreated.
Their surgeries in Lucan, Firhouse and Maynooth have noticed an increase in the cases of the dangerous virus, which could be deadly in some cases.
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The virus brings around symptoms of severe vomiting and diarrhoea, and puppies who have not had their full vaccination course are at particularly high risk.
Shauna Quinn, lead veterinary surgeon at MyVet, said: "Parvovirus can have quite a severe impact on affected dogs and can impact dogs of all breeds and age.
"The virus can spread through direct contact or infected faeces and affected dogs can even spread the virus after recovery for up to eight weeks.
"Symptoms include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhoea, often with blood.
"Unfortunately, the virus is highly resistant and can remain in the environment for many months outside, so it’s important to spread the word about it so that more dog owners can be aware of its severity, take precautions and be able to spot the symptoms.
"If you think your dog is displaying any symptoms of parvovirus, get in touch with your local vet straight away. There is an instant test that can be done on a faecal sample or swabs, so treatment can be started immediately," added Shauna.
More than 600 pets have been brought to Ireland since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began.
With the vast majority being cats and dogs, the pets and their 485 owners have made the country their new home.
The Government confirmed the figures earlier this year, with Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue promising Ireland will continue to operate an open-door policy for Ukrainians and their pets.
According to the figures, 333 dogs and 285 cats have travelled to Ireland with their owners from Ukraine, in addition to a number of smaller household pets.
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