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Virus 'outbreak' threatening dogs
9:59am Friday 15th August 2008
A VET has warned of an outbreak of a potentially lethal dog virus in south-east London.
Parkvets has recently dealt with a case of canine parvovirus at its veterinary clinic in Mottingham and another at its animal hospital in Sidcup.
One dog with the virus was taken to the company's Eltham clinic and another two were treated at its Belverdere branch.
Parkvets senior veterinary surgeon Dave Nichol says after a decade of working with animals he has never seen so many cases of the canine parvovirus in such a short space of time.
He said: "We would expect one or two cases a year but we have had five since July 31 and are awaiting results on other dogs.
"It is a real problem. Unvaccinated dogs have a 50-per-cent chance of dying from this.
"I think we could describe it as an outbreak and I have telephoned other vets in the area to tell them what is happening here.
"We have ordered in 100 extra doses of the vaccine. It can get a lot more serious because 50 per cent of dogs are unvaccinated against this type of virus."
The parvovirus brings on sickness and diarrhoea and dogs can die of dehydration if left untreated.
Mr Nichol, 32, added: "Younger, unvaccinated animals are particularly at risk and the virus can cost owners hundreds of pounds in vet's fees.
"It's contagious and can spread very quickly. Nurses in our clinics are using foot baths and full gowns to help stop it spreading."
Anyone who is worried about their dog's health can contact Parkvets on 020 8300 8111 or get in touch with their nearest animal clinic.
The RSPCA says the figures highlighted by Mr Nichol are above average and that the problem is made worse by people failing to vaccinate their animals.
A spokesman for the charity said: "This is a potentially lethal virus. Anyone looking for a dog should avoid buying animals from puppy farms where the virus can spread more easily."
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local, swanley says...
12:01pm Fri 15 Aug 08
100 extra doses of vaccine doesn't seem many for a potential lethal outbreak - methinks the vet is creating a market.
Also, seems strange that a dog with the illness happened to be at the vets when a photographer appeared to cover the 'news'. It should be tucked up in bed not used as part of an advertisisng campaign.
There's no news of this in the canine press...
Also, seems strange that a dog with the illness happened to be at the vets when a photographer appeared to cover the 'news'. It should be tucked up in bed not used as part of an advertisisng campaign.
There's no news of this in the canine press...
Jen, Bexleyheath says...
12:01pm Fri 15 Aug 08
If my dog had his vaccine against Parvovirus as a pup would he still be able to get ill from it?
Tracey, Orpington says...
12:13pm Fri 15 Aug 08
To Me-I havent had my 2 year old staff vaccinated,but I have just had her speyed. Choose was injection to stop any bugs she might get or speyed to stop more unwanted pups. Have I done wrong? Am I a bad owner? O she has been to a vet about a sore foot,so am I still a bad owner for not getting the injections?? Think before you type. Also do you have a pet Me??
Local, swanley says...
12:43pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Tracey,
There are many epople now in the dog fraqternity that do not have their dogs vaccinated and they follow natural diets as well. This does not make them bad people. In fact if a dog is over the age of five and has always had the yearly injections they normally do not need any more as they haver all antibodies they need. After all children dont have boosters every year.
I suggest those that are worried go to some of the many pet forums and join in the discussions with people who are not profiting from giving dogs high priced food, injections and other chemical treatments.
Look at the BARF diet and the RMB diet for ways to keep your epts healthy.
Your breeder should also be consulted if you bought from such a person. Remember that reputable breeders normally have more day to day knowledge of a dog that these young vets.
There are many epople now in the dog fraqternity that do not have their dogs vaccinated and they follow natural diets as well. This does not make them bad people. In fact if a dog is over the age of five and has always had the yearly injections they normally do not need any more as they haver all antibodies they need. After all children dont have boosters every year.
I suggest those that are worried go to some of the many pet forums and join in the discussions with people who are not profiting from giving dogs high priced food, injections and other chemical treatments.
Look at the BARF diet and the RMB diet for ways to keep your epts healthy.
Your breeder should also be consulted if you bought from such a person. Remember that reputable breeders normally have more day to day knowledge of a dog that these young vets.
Dog Owner, Charlton says...
12:46pm Fri 15 Aug 08
To Tracey,
Why have a dog if you can not give the dog the proper care it needs, your own fault if your dog get the virus..............
Why have a dog if you can not give the dog the proper care it needs, your own fault if your dog get the virus..............
come on, says...
12:57pm Fri 15 Aug 08
if vets didnt charge the bl*ody earth maybe we could get our pets the vacinations they need, . you have the pdsa but you have to be below a certain wage to qualify using them. these days £20k a year isnt much not when you consider what you pay out.
local, swanley says...
1:17pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Dog Owner wrote:Dog Owner, nothing in Tracey's post suggested she was a bad dog owner. She was asking a question.
To Tracey, Why have a dog if you can not give the dog the proper care it needs, your own fault if your dog get the virus..............
People who pump cash into vets purses are not necessarily doing the best for their pets either they are just caught up in the guilt trip vets throw at them if they dont go running to a vet as soon as a dog's nose drips.
We never used to have our pets pumped full of drugs or need to buy expensive food products and they lived long happy lives.
Sammi, Eltham says...
1:32pm Fri 15 Aug 08
I pay £28.00 a year for my dog to have his injections, these injections cover everything including parvo, I think this is not a great amount of money seeing that it is only once a year. I would rather pay £28.00 a year than watch him suffer this terrible illness.
local, swanley says...
1:32pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Please note the only vets who are saying there is an outbreak are the veterinary group in the article. I have telephone SIX other vets in the area and most said there are no parvo incidents, one said there are the normal odd incidents of it for this time of year. One practise said there has been the normal summer tummy bugs but nothing serious. I suggest that anyone who is worried speaks to their own vet about this rather than listen to a veterinary group who are obviously touting for business.
Oh and one of their branch surgeries didn't have any information to tell me about the 'outbreak'
Oh and one of their branch surgeries didn't have any information to tell me about the 'outbreak'
John, Local says...
2:18pm Fri 15 Aug 08
I have asked my dog how he felt....he said ruff
Should I be worried?
Should I be worried?
BOB, ERITH says...
2:39pm Fri 15 Aug 08
anyone who says they cant afford vaccinations is using a lame excuse. Get some bloody insurance then and you wont have to worry about it when the dog gets ill and saying that breeders have more knowledge than a trained vet is just plain stupid they may know more about a dogs behavour maybe but when it comes to a dogs ill health i would think that a vet who has had training would be the expert not a breeder.
Claire, Lee, London says...
2:58pm Fri 15 Aug 08
To all who haven't vaccinated - So as puppies were your dogs never vaccinated?? The majority of dogs that contract Parvovirus are under the age of 5. Parvovirus is a deadly disease and once contracted is very contagous to other dogs it can take up to 7 months for your home environment to become free from the virus. Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!! For those who cannot afford the injection I think is a terrible excuse. Get some insurance or if you can't afford it or the vaccination then DONT GET A DOG! Dogs are a massive responsibility. Parvovirus is passed through dog faeces. How many of you pick up your dog poo?? I would imagine only ½ of the people here who have posted. How many of you walk your dogs on a daily basis where they come in to contact with other dogs faeces which are left in the park and public places around this country?? The majority I would suggest and that is where it can all stem from. Please vaccinate your dogs its far cheaper than having a hefty vet bill because your dog is seriously ill.
Charlie, Bromley says...
3:06pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Claire wrote:"Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!!"
To all who haven't vaccinated - So as puppies were your dogs never vaccinated?? The majority of dogs that contract Parvovirus are under the age of 5. Parvovirus is a deadly disease and once contracted is very contagous to other dogs it can take up to 7 months for your home environment to become free from the virus. Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!! For those who cannot afford the injection I think is a terrible excuse. Get some insurance or if you can't afford it or the vaccination then DONT GET A DOG! Dogs are a massive responsibility. Parvovirus is passed through dog faeces. How many of you pick up your dog poo?? I would imagine only ½ of the people here who have posted. How many of you walk your dogs on a daily basis where they come in to contact with other dogs faeces which are left in the park and public places around this country?? The majority I would suggest and that is where it can all stem from. Please vaccinate your dogs its far cheaper than having a hefty vet bill because your dog is seriously ill.
Its a virus (clue in the name) not a bacteria.
FAIL!
Tracey, Orpington. says...
3:11pm Fri 15 Aug 08
To all it concerns. I rescued my dog a year ago,she was breed to be a fighting dog,we took her in.So I dont pay for the vaccinations for her,that is my choice,but they are soo expensive. The nearest charity organisation is in Lewisham. I cant get her there. Most buses wont take staffs,cant afford a cab and no family to help. So she goes without her injections. But she doesnt roam the streets to be near enough to other animals to catch anything. I paid £100 to have her speyed. So am I wrong to do that? There will be no unwanted pups from here to be used for violence like she would of been. You can say what you like about how I care for her. She is well fed,walked every day and has all the love in the world in my home.
Nick, London says...
3:14pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Tracey wrote:Tracey. If you cannot afford to look after your dog properly then you should not have one. I personally think you have done wrong. I have 2 dogs. They have their injections every year. They are both speyed and they have Frontline every month too. They are also insured at a cost of £40 a month. It is very expensive but I think that if you have a pet then you have a responsibility to look after it properly.
To Me-I havent had my 2 year old staff vaccinated,but I have just had her speyed. Choose was injection to stop any bugs she might get or speyed to stop more unwanted pups. Have I done wrong? Am I a bad owner? O she has been to a vet about a sore foot,so am I still a bad owner for not getting the injections?? Think before you type. Also do you have a pet Me??
Claire, Lee, location says...
3:27pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Charlie wrote:I do not appreciate your answer however you are entitled to your own opinion!
Claire wrote: To all who haven't vaccinated - So as puppies were your dogs never vaccinated?? The majority of dogs that contract Parvovirus are under the age of 5. Parvovirus is a deadly disease and once contracted is very contagous to other dogs it can take up to 7 months for your home environment to become free from the virus. Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!! For those who cannot afford the injection I think is a terrible excuse. Get some insurance or if you can't afford it or the vaccination then DONT GET A DOG! Dogs are a massive responsibility. Parvovirus is passed through dog faeces. How many of you pick up your dog poo?? I would imagine only ½ of the people here who have posted. How many of you walk your dogs on a daily basis where they come in to contact with other dogs faeces which are left in the park and public places around this country?? The majority I would suggest and that is where it can all stem from. Please vaccinate your dogs its far cheaper than having a hefty vet bill because your dog is seriously ill."Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!!" Its a virus (clue in the name) not a bacteria. FAIL!
However there are still bacteria from the virus passed via dog feaces which can still be evident on your dogs coat. If you read up on the virus you would know that canine parvovirus comes in 2 strains and can even be transmitted via surfaces like floors, bedding even your dogs coat
e.t.c!!!!
Claire, Lee, London says...
3:44pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Nick wrote:Nick I agree wholeheartledly with everything you say!! I too have 1 dog and it is vaccinated, wormed, frontlined and due for spey in the next few weeks. She is also insured costing £25/month. If you can't afford to do these things then I'm afraid in my opinion you should not have a dog.
Tracey wrote: To Me-I havent had my 2 year old staff vaccinated,but I have just had her speyed. Choose was injection to stop any bugs she might get or speyed to stop more unwanted pups. Have I done wrong? Am I a bad owner? O she has been to a vet about a sore foot,so am I still a bad owner for not getting the injections?? Think before you type. Also do you have a pet Me??Tracey. If you cannot afford to look after your dog properly then you should not have one. I personally think you have done wrong. I have 2 dogs. They have their injections every year. They are both speyed and they have Frontline every month too. They are also insured at a cost of £40 a month. It is very expensive but I think that if you have a pet then you have a responsibility to look after it properly.
local, Swanley says...
3:46pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Tracey wrote:Tracey, there is a pdsa at Thamemead and another in Croydon. Also contact the staffordshire breed rescue as hy amy be able to help. Well done for rescuing your dog.
To all it concerns. I rescued my dog a year ago,she was breed to be a fighting dog,we took her in.So I dont pay for the vaccinations for her,that is my choice,but they are soo expensive. The nearest charity organisation is in Lewisham. I cant get her there. Most buses wont take staffs,cant afford a cab and no family to help. So she goes without her injections. But she doesnt roam the streets to be near enough to other animals to catch anything. I paid £100 to have her speyed. So am I wrong to do that? There will be no unwanted pups from here to be used for violence like she would of been. You can say what you like about how I care for her. She is well fed,walked every day and has all the love in the world in my home.
Charlie, Bromley says...
3:49pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Claire wrote:Wrong - no "bacteria from virus" can exists - that is impossible.
Charlie wrote:I do not appreciate your answer however you are entitled to your own opinion!
Claire wrote: To all who haven't vaccinated - So as puppies were your dogs never vaccinated?? The majority of dogs that contract Parvovirus are under the age of 5. Parvovirus is a deadly disease and once contracted is very contagous to other dogs it can take up to 7 months for your home environment to become free from the virus. Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!! For those who cannot afford the injection I think is a terrible excuse. Get some insurance or if you can't afford it or the vaccination then DONT GET A DOG! Dogs are a massive responsibility. Parvovirus is passed through dog faeces. How many of you pick up your dog poo?? I would imagine only ½ of the people here who have posted. How many of you walk your dogs on a daily basis where they come in to contact with other dogs faeces which are left in the park and public places around this country?? The majority I would suggest and that is where it can all stem from. Please vaccinate your dogs its far cheaper than having a hefty vet bill because your dog is seriously ill."Normal disinfectants cannot wholey kill the bacteria!!!" Its a virus (clue in the name) not a bacteria. FAIL!
However there are still bacteria from the virus passed via dog feaces which can still be evident on your dogs coat. If you read up on the virus you would know that canine parvovirus comes in 2 strains and can even be transmitted via surfaces like floors, bedding even your dogs coat
e.t.c!!!!
Tracey, Orpington says...
3:55pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Nick wrote:Well done to you,so what you are saying,is that I shouldnt have my dog,and that I should of left her with the man that wanted to fight her??? Good on you...
Tracey wrote: To Me-I havent had my 2 year old staff vaccinated,but I have just had her speyed. Choose was injection to stop any bugs she might get or speyed to stop more unwanted pups. Have I done wrong? Am I a bad owner? O she has been to a vet about a sore foot,so am I still a bad owner for not getting the injections?? Think before you type. Also do you have a pet Me??Tracey. If you cannot afford to look after your dog properly then you should not have one. I personally think you have done wrong. I have 2 dogs. They have their injections every year. They are both speyed and they have Frontline every month too. They are also insured at a cost of £40 a month. It is very expensive but I think that if you have a pet then you have a responsibility to look after it properly.
Tracey, Orpington says...
3:57pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Ooops,did forget,I have had pets for roughly 20 years. Never had any of the cats or dogs vaccinated,they have never been ill and they have lived to a very good age.
Claire, says...
4:00pm Fri 15 Aug 08
There are places like the PDSA who can help you with this sort of thing.
For the bacteria guy. So dog feaces doesn't contain bacteria?? Hmmm The virus is passed through the feaces read this: http://www.marvistav
et.com/html/what_is_
parvo.html
For the bacteria guy. So dog feaces doesn't contain bacteria?? Hmmm The virus is passed through the feaces read this: http://www.marvistav
et.com/html/what_is_
parvo.html
dee, at my desk says...
4:42pm Fri 15 Aug 08
come on wrote:Then why not take out an insurance policy for your pet, you can find monthly payments from as little as £4 a month for a basic policy which would cover unexpected costs some will even offer the immunisations as they see it as a preventative measure, afterall its preferable to pay £30 for necessary prevention then to pay the £300+ vet fees when and if your pet gets ill.
if vets didnt charge the bl*ody earth maybe we could get our pets the vacinations they need, . you have the pdsa but you have to be below a certain wage to qualify using them. these days £20k a year isnt much not when you consider what you pay out.
Susie, Bexley says...
4:56pm Fri 15 Aug 08
My Doggy has had all his jabs and been spayed cost quite a bit to do it but it was worth it for him not to get ill or anything he was a rescure dog got beaten up and tied to a post and abaonned so his not had a nice life to start with don't want him getting sick as well!!
Charlie, Bromley says...
6:11pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Claire wrote:I never said they don't contain bacteria.
There are places like the PDSA who can help you with this sort of thing.
For the bacteria guy. So dog feaces doesn\'t contain bacteria?? Hmmm The virus is passed through the feaces read this: http://www.marvistav
et.com/html/what_is_
parvo.html
But you are pretending to know it all about this virus, but you don't even know the difference between a bacterium and a virus!
Bacteria can reproduce by themselves and are single celled organisms. Viruses are a splodge of DNA and/or RNA, held together in a viral shell that cannot reproduce by themselves, and do not, according to most many scientists, constitute life, as they need a living host to reproduce.
So, if you have a anti bacterial disinfectant, it will most likely have no affect on this virus, as they are fundamentally different things.
Pete Beat, kent says...
7:34pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Lets hope the virus kils all the devil dogs that are in our area. The ones with the young man who has all the brains of a pilow and thinks he will be the hardest man in kent with a big dog on a lead.
Those dog owners are going to cause us all grief, look at the dog centre at brands hatch its all unwanted staffs and oit bull mongrels, no respectful family wants a devil dog and to be honest we need them all put down.
Those dog owners are going to cause us all grief, look at the dog centre at brands hatch its all unwanted staffs and oit bull mongrels, no respectful family wants a devil dog and to be honest we need them all put down.
simon, erith says...
8:17pm Fri 15 Aug 08
there is no such thing as a devil dog the owners are at fault not the dog so the owners should be put down not the poor animal as for not being able to afford to look after your pet should you not have thought of this before you got him/her you are the most irresponsible of all owners and should have your dog taken away from you bloody idiots like this make me mad
L, says...
8:52pm Fri 15 Aug 08
As a volunteer homevetter and rescuer with a local animal sanctuary I am no longer suprised by any thing people do with their animals (not only dogs). Pets are a huge responsibility and cost the earth - something people need to consider before taking one on. Insurance is really important, my rescue schnauzer has cancer and fortunately he is insured and my vet is claiming the cost direct from Petplan. His bill will run into thousands so I am so relieved as not sure how I would have paid his bill, what a horrid choice I would have had to make. Insurance does not cover immunisations flea treatments wormers etc. For your pets sake please get them vaccinated.
The size of vet bills is prohibitive for many but the costs of drugs etc and the staff salaries plus the general running costs of the surgery need to be covered.
To the lady who rescued the staff well done but if you cannot afford vet bills there are rescue centres who will take such animals in.
The size of vet bills is prohibitive for many but the costs of drugs etc and the staff salaries plus the general running costs of the surgery need to be covered.
To the lady who rescued the staff well done but if you cannot afford vet bills there are rescue centres who will take such animals in.
local, swanley says...
9:12pm Fri 15 Aug 08
dee wrote:Insurance does not cover parvo jabs - they are included in with the usual jabs that are also not covered.
come on wrote: if vets didnt charge the bl*ody earth maybe we could get our pets the vacinations they need, . you have the pdsa but you have to be below a certain wage to qualify using them. these days £20k a year isnt much not when you consider what you pay out.Then why not take out an insurance policy for your pet, you can find monthly payments from as little as £4 a month for a basic policy which would cover unexpected costs some will even offer the immunisations as they see it as a preventative measure, afterall its preferable to pay £30 for necessary prevention then to pay the £300+ vet fees when and if your pet gets ill.
Petplan is the most expensive insurer and is pushed by vets as they get commission. Look at the ones sold in Tesco,Asda and M&S they cover most things very well and you can pay monthly. Also the Kennel Club have a good policy and your dog does not have to be registered with them to be insured.
Even if you cannot afford a policy, and no law says you that you have to have one it is purely optional, you could put a few pounds aways each week in case of emergencies. I do this for my pets cremations as they're not covered by insurance policies - in fact what with excess charges a lot of policies ar not worth anything unless your pet is really ill or injured - which no one is wishing on them!
Jack Russell, Barking says...
9:47pm Fri 15 Aug 08
I lick my gonads a lot, will I pick up this virus ?
j, thamesmead says...
9:49pm Fri 15 Aug 08
i have a 3year old staffie and he has had all his inj and his boosters every year. its true why get a dog if you cant afford to look after him and care for his needs. you wouldn't treat a baby like it so why your family pet.
SG, Bromley says...
10:08pm Fri 15 Aug 08
Oh dear, I bet there are a lot of worried women in South East London. Get your injections in ladies!
local, swanley says...
10:22pm Fri 15 Aug 08
SG wrote:Only idiots will panic but it'll be enough to pay for another set of wheels on the vet's porsche.
Oh dear, I bet there are a lot of worried women in South East London. Get your injections in ladies!
James, Agog at the too stupid to breathe says...
11:31pm Fri 15 Aug 08
come on wrote:If you can't afford to pay for the very best care for your pet then don't get one.
if vets didnt charge the bl*ody earth maybe we could get our pets the vacinations they need, . you have the pdsa but you have to be below a certain wage to qualify using them. these days £20k a year isnt much not when you consider what you pay out.
Pet ownership is about you taking full responsibility for that animal for the duration of its life.
The PDSA exists because selfish people who can't afford to properly care for pets throughout their life still choose to get them.
I think the work that PDSA staff do is outstanding but every person who needs to access their services should take a deep long look at themselves and face the fact that they cannot afford to care for their pet therefore they shouldnt have one!
name, location says...
12:04am Sat 16 Aug 08
so you own a dog for 5 years, get made unemployed and your dog gets sick, you cant afford a vet as you have just been made unemployed so use the service of the pdsa...thats makes you a bad dog owner and you shouldnt own a pet eh james ? I think your attitude is pathetic and your a merchant banker and i feel a lot of pet owners who have been in this posistion would agree, at best your opinion is not thought out or you just enjoy talking out your arse...but then most of the posters here are doing that as well so your not in the boat on your own !
Local, swanley says...
12:15am Sat 16 Aug 08
The above poster was speaking a lot of sense until he/she spoilt it by becomming a tad verbal. None of us know what life will throw out way in the future. However I do think the amount of rules that dog owners are supposed to follow these days in a bit ridiculous - its a shame people who have children aren't so well monitored.
C, Grove Park says...
9:33am Sat 16 Aug 08
To all the 'responsible pet owners' are you saying that if you were made unemployed that you would give your dog away? What utter rubbish!
I would like to think that you stick with your pet through thick or thin. When you brought your pet that lives for an average of 10 to 16
years, did you really have the foresight to know that your life would be finacially secure for all of your pets life? Most of us are not that lucky! And yes i do believe that pets should be insured, vaccinated, and de-fleaed and wormed but alot of you need to realize that situations can and do change. And that doesnt make you a bad pet owner! By the way the PDSA would prefer you to use their services than to give your pets away and put them in a rescue centre, which consequently are over run.
I would like to think that you stick with your pet through thick or thin. When you brought your pet that lives for an average of 10 to 16
years, did you really have the foresight to know that your life would be finacially secure for all of your pets life? Most of us are not that lucky! And yes i do believe that pets should be insured, vaccinated, and de-fleaed and wormed but alot of you need to realize that situations can and do change. And that doesnt make you a bad pet owner! By the way the PDSA would prefer you to use their services than to give your pets away and put them in a rescue centre, which consequently are over run.
Tracey, Orpington says...
11:07am Sat 16 Aug 08
So to all those saying about vaccinations,that I am a bad owner for not getting my dog down,blimey she has missed one injection. Do I really have to get rid of her?? What about the parents who dont vaccinate their kids,do they too have to get rid of their kids???
Egbert, Woolwich says...
12:58pm Sat 16 Aug 08
Cant afford a pet? dont get one, have kids but can't afford to bring them up? Well you should have thought about that before u opened your legs!
I think compulsary sterilisation for any 16 year old not in emploment sounds like a good move to me.
Wont have to spend so much on vaccinations and other NHS care wasted on wasters!
All you people who think this country owes you something, get a life!
Break the cycle of taking by giving something back for a change. Be responsible!
I know its difficult, but try thinking about other people before yourself.
Pets as well as life should be means tested. If you have paid in you can take out, if you a sponging ponce who relies on my taxes and my charity donations for your pet care and weekly dole money, well I have no time for you.
And before I get the normal what about the disabled? Well, where are their family? But yes, people who cannot care for themselves because of disabilities should be cared for and allowed a decent standard of living by the government. If we had less sponging unemployed scum in this country there would be more money in the pot for those who deserve our support!
Get a job before you get a pet, keep a job for a few years and maybe you should be allowed to have a kid, otherwise, NO NO, NO!
I think compulsary sterilisation for any 16 year old not in emploment sounds like a good move to me.
Wont have to spend so much on vaccinations and other NHS care wasted on wasters!
All you people who think this country owes you something, get a life!
Break the cycle of taking by giving something back for a change. Be responsible!
I know its difficult, but try thinking about other people before yourself.
Pets as well as life should be means tested. If you have paid in you can take out, if you a sponging ponce who relies on my taxes and my charity donations for your pet care and weekly dole money, well I have no time for you.
And before I get the normal what about the disabled? Well, where are their family? But yes, people who cannot care for themselves because of disabilities should be cared for and allowed a decent standard of living by the government. If we had less sponging unemployed scum in this country there would be more money in the pot for those who deserve our support!
Get a job before you get a pet, keep a job for a few years and maybe you should be allowed to have a kid, otherwise, NO NO, NO!
kelly pritchard, sidcup says...
9:33pm Sat 16 Aug 08
Dog owners please please take this parvo outbreak seriously. My 7 month old pug (who HAS been vaccinated) has caught parvo and has been desperately ill and at death's door. He was one of the puppies being treated at Park Vets. One skeptic above says that the so called outbreak only relates to Parkvets;hence suggesting it is a marketing excercise. That is rubbish. I know first hand that as at today (Sat 16 aug) Parkvets in Sidcup alone has 5 parvo cases with dogs in isolation on drips and fighting for their lives. If you add the cases from their other branches we are into double figures. I also know of other vets in the area facing the same problem. There IS an outbreak. YOUR dog is at risk. The survival rate for a parvo infected dog is just 50%. You can all bleat on about not being able to afford vaccinations but without a vaccination it is highly likely your pup will die from parvo. if you cannot afford to give your pup basic protection against disease by having the injections please don't get a dog. i am one of the lucky ones. i got my pup home yesterday - he is traumatized but still alive. If he had not had the vaccination he would have been dead. Fact. The vaccination does not guarantee your pup will not contract parvo but it will give him a decent chance at fighting the deadly disease. I also understand from the vet and vaccine company that it is due to the high number of unvaccinated dogs that the parvo infection rate is so high. That, in turn, is compromising the effectiveness of the vaccine in exactly the same way as the MMR problem we now see with children. Don't be selfish. If you cannot afford vaccinations. DO NOT GET A DOG!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for listening and please, if you love your dog, vaccinate him and keep him away from other dog's faeces and bums during this risky time.
Thanks for listening and please, if you love your dog, vaccinate him and keep him away from other dog's faeces and bums during this risky time.
Nick, London says...
10:11pm Sat 16 Aug 08
Tracey wrote:No you shouldn't have left the dog with the man that wanted to fight him/her. You should have reported him to the RSPCA.
Ooops,did forget,I have had pets for roughly 20 years. Never had any of the cats or dogs vaccinated,they have never been ill and they have lived to a very good age.
local, Swnley says...
10:35pm Sat 16 Aug 08
kelly pritchard wrote:Kelly, I am sorry to hear about your dog. I was the person who posted the comment and I telephoned around and checked my facts before posting - that does not make me a skeptic it makes me a realist. I am a dog owner, breeder of long standing so know what I am saying.I have checked canine forums and the internet there is no major outbreak as intimated by the article - thank goodness!
Dog owners please please take this parvo outbreak seriously. My 7 month old pug (who HAS been vaccinated) has caught parvo and has been desperately ill and at death's door. He was one of the puppies being treated at Park Vets. One skeptic above says that the so called outbreak only relates to Parkvets;hence suggesting it is a marketing excercise. That is rubbish. I know first hand that as at today (Sat 16 aug) Parkvets in Sidcup alone has 5 parvo cases with dogs in isolation on drips and fighting for their lives. If you add the cases from their other branches we are into double figures. I also know of other vets in the area facing the same problem. There IS an outbreak. YOUR dog is at risk. The survival rate for a parvo infected dog is just 50%. You can all bleat on about not being able to afford vaccinations but without a vaccination it is highly likely your pup will die from parvo. if you cannot afford to give your pup basic protection against disease by having the injections please don't get a dog. i am one of the lucky ones. i got my pup home yesterday - he is traumatized but still alive. If he had not had the vaccination he would have been dead. Fact. The vaccination does not guarantee your pup will not contract parvo but it will give him a decent chance at fighting the deadly disease. I also understand from the vet and vaccine company that it is due to the high number of unvaccinated dogs that the parvo infection rate is so high. That, in turn, is compromising the effectiveness of the vaccine in exactly the same way as the MMR problem we now see with children. Don't be selfish. If you cannot afford vaccinations. DO NOT GET A DOG!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for listening and please, if you love your dog, vaccinate him and keep him away from other dog's faeces and bums during this risky time.
I wish your dog well.
Ellie, says...
11:52pm Sat 16 Aug 08
To local from swanley
Why are you breeding puppies ?
Dont you think there are enough unwanted dogs without you adding to the problem ?
Why are you breeding puppies ?
Dont you think there are enough unwanted dogs without you adding to the problem ?
Ilovemydogs, dartford says...
2:59pm Sun 17 Aug 08
If you cant be bothered to vaccinate your dog, and it then catches a virus, then it is your fault the dog is suffering and you should be ashamed. I see excuses here for not ensuring your dogs wellbeing. I see adverts online asking for a free dog because they cant afford to buy one. If you cant look after your dog, dont get one!!
adam, sidcup says...
6:44pm Sun 17 Aug 08
Its a bit strong calling that bird a dog.just get her vaccinated
local, Swanley says...
8:53pm Sun 17 Aug 08
Ellie wrote:Not that its any of your business but I am a proper breeder, I only have a litter when I want a puppy, my puppies go to good pet or show homes and are very much loved - all homes are vetted. In over 34 years I have never had a problem with my dogs or owners and none have ended up in rescue. All my dogs are health checked and reared correctly. I am a breed expert and judge. I have served on canine committees and worked for rescue. My dogs are bred to the breed standard and have been winners at Crufts.
To local from swanley Why are you breeding puppies ? Dont you think there are enough unwanted dogs without you adding to the problem ?
So whats your point?
MY dogs have better pedigrees than your children - what's their health record like and are you a good parent?
Ellie, says...
10:59pm Sun 17 Aug 08
local wrote:What a nasty person you are...there was no need for your last comment!
Ellie wrote: To local from swanley Why are you breeding puppies ? Dont you think there are enough unwanted dogs without you adding to the problem ?Not that its any of your business but I am a proper breeder, I only have a litter when I want a puppy, my puppies go to good pet or show homes and are very much loved - all homes are vetted. In over 34 years I have never had a problem with my dogs or owners and none have ended up in rescue. All my dogs are health checked and reared correctly. I am a breed expert and judge. I have served on canine committees and worked for rescue. My dogs are bred to the breed standard and have been winners at Crufts. So whats your point? MY dogs have better pedigrees than your children - what's their health record like and are you a good parent?
None of your puppies have ended up in a rescue BUT every puppie you breed means a dog in rescue dies.
I find it hard to believe that some who has "worked in rescue" would breed aswell !
Local, Swanley says...
11:57pm Sun 17 Aug 08
Dont be so silly, I replied in the same vein as your post to me. Don't dish it if you can't take it.
As for your statement about me causing dogs in rescue to die because I breed a few litters is downright stupid. Why not target the back street breeders not decent honest people who live and work for canines and strive to improve the health of dogs? There are very few of my breed in rescue and whenever we hear of one we work as a team to ensure it gets a good home for the rest of its life. As for campaigning for dogs I've appeared on radio defending them and advised ITN on rules concerning dangerous dogs plus I have written about dogs for the national press - so you've targeted the wrong person here!
I suggest you go learn how to spell the word puppy before spouting off at me about it.
'Work in Rescue' for your information means being available every day to advise people in your breed to be good owners and help them rehome a dog if it can no longer remain in its present home. It means rattling cans to collect money for breed rescue and educating people to be good owners. Manning stalls at crufts to educate people. Being a decent dog owner means arranging your life around your dogs and not going off to work each day and leaving them.
AS soon as people like you hear the word breeder you are ready to jump down our throats as if we are some sort of baddies. God we are the people who are funding rescue societies and educating dog owners to be responsible people. It the general public who are the ones buying from back street breeders and people out to make a quick buck. We breeders are registerd and we work for dogs - they are our lives.
As for your statement about me causing dogs in rescue to die because I breed a few litters is downright stupid. Why not target the back street breeders not decent honest people who live and work for canines and strive to improve the health of dogs? There are very few of my breed in rescue and whenever we hear of one we work as a team to ensure it gets a good home for the rest of its life. As for campaigning for dogs I've appeared on radio defending them and advised ITN on rules concerning dangerous dogs plus I have written about dogs for the national press - so you've targeted the wrong person here!
I suggest you go learn how to spell the word puppy before spouting off at me about it.
'Work in Rescue' for your information means being available every day to advise people in your breed to be good owners and help them rehome a dog if it can no longer remain in its present home. It means rattling cans to collect money for breed rescue and educating people to be good owners. Manning stalls at crufts to educate people. Being a decent dog owner means arranging your life around your dogs and not going off to work each day and leaving them.
AS soon as people like you hear the word breeder you are ready to jump down our throats as if we are some sort of baddies. God we are the people who are funding rescue societies and educating dog owners to be responsible people. It the general public who are the ones buying from back street breeders and people out to make a quick buck. We breeders are registerd and we work for dogs - they are our lives.
Me, says...
10:56am Fri 15 Aug 08
Alot of people buy a pet and it never see's a vet.
Parvo is a very nasty thing and Dogs suffer greatly and have a terrible death