Companion Animal Facility Closed
Published on 16 June 2025
Narrabri Shire Council advises that our Companion Animal Facility has been placed in lockdown following veterinary advice.
A recent spike in parvovirus cases within the community has unfortunately reached the facility via a stray dog. To protect other animals from exposure - whether arriving at the facility or being returned home in an infectious state, the site will remain closed until further notice.
Council’s Regulatory Compliance team is working closely with local Veterinarians to contain and manage the outbreak. The reopening of the facility will depend on whether any further positive cases are identified during containment efforts. Notice will be provided on news of reopening.
We understand this may cause frustration, but the safety and wellbeing of animals in our care and the wider community remains our top priority.
Pet owners, please act now: Parvovirus is highly contagious and often fatal. Keeping your pets up to date with their annual vaccinations is critical in preventing its spread. Talk to your vet today.
Parvovirus, also known as parvo or canine parvovirus - is a highly contagious virus that mostly affects unvaccinated dogs and putting puppies most at risk.
This virus attacks the lining of the small intestine and can often be very fatal if left untreated. It causes vomiting, diarrhoea and causes severe dehydration and shock to the animal's system.
How do dogs get parvo?
Parvo can survive for long periods of time within an environment and even withstand routine cleaning. The spread of the virus can be as simple as transferring from the paws of dogs, people's shoes and other items contaminated with the virus.
Parvovirus is shed in the faeces of infected animals, and dogs easily come into contact with these when sniffing the ground when on walks or at the dog park.
What are the main symptoms?
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Abdominal bloating and pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea (which may contain blood)
- Fever or low temperature
Prevention
There are highly effective vaccines available to protect dogs from parvovirus. In Australia, the C3 vaccine is commonly used — it protects against three serious diseases: canine parvovirus, canine distemper, and canine adenovirus.
Puppies should start their vaccinations from six weeks of age, and it’s essential that all dogs stay up to date with their shots to avoid life-threatening illness.
Your vet will guide you through the right vaccination schedule for your dog and will check your dog’s health before giving any vaccines.
Not sure if your dog is vaccinated? Contact your local vet for advice.