Canine parvovirus in New Zealand: epidemiological features and diagnostic methods

Data from 763 cases of clinical canine parvovirus disease confirmed at the Ruakura Animal Health Laboratory were examined. The largest number of cases were seen in spring and summer months with the peak incidence in February 1981. The morbidity and mortality rates were highest in young dogs. Sixty-nine percent of all cases occurred in dogs less than six months of age, and 63 percent of dogs seven weeks of age or younger died. The laboratory methods used to diagnose canine parvovirus disease are compareh and discussed.