The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued advice following a spate of reports concerning dogs with gastroenteritis-like symptoms in parts of North East England and Yorkshire. There are been speculation that the cases may have links to visits to local beaches.
BVA President Justine Shotton said, “We are aware of a recent spike in cases of dogs falling ill from gastroenteritis-like symptoms in several parts of Yorkshire and North East England. Vets see gastroenteritis cases relatively commonly in practice, but etween the illness and the dogs visiting the beaches. We’ve heard reports from vets in the area who are really far inland and they are also seeing an increase in these kinds of cases in dogs that have never been to the beach, so I’m not sure yet if we have enough information to make that link.
“OUR ADVICE TO CONCERNED OWNERS IS TO CONTACT THEIR LOCAL VET FOR PROMPT TREATMENT IF THEIR DOG SHOWS ANY SIGNS OF ILLNESS, SUCH AS VOMITING AND DIARRHOEA”
“With gastroenteritis, most cases are mild, but some dogs may need hospitalisation with a drip. In the worst situations, it can become haemorrhagic leading to secondary complications or even death, but that is very rare.”
Pointing to a possible seasonal link to the cases, she added, “While pet owners are understandably worried, the cases may be part of a normal increase in gastroenteritis that vets see during the colder months.
“We saw and the latest data from the University of Liverpool’s veterinary surveillance database points to the spike being part of normal seasonal variation at the moment.”
“Our advice to concerned owners is to contact their local vet for prompt treatment if their dog shows any signs of illness, such as vomiting and diarrhoea.”
Dr Shotton also encouraged veterinary practices to report any cases to help researchers in their investigations.
“BVA is asking vets to report any gastroenteritis-like cases to SAVSNET to help researchers build a clearer picture of the outbreak and to investigate if the spike is part of normal seasonal variation or if a specific virus or bacteria is at play.”