The Royal Veterinary College’s (RVC) Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital is aware of four separate cases of parvovirus in young dogs in Tufnell Park and Kentish Town over the past week.
They say the virus is highly contagious and warn that further cases are likely in the area.
And they are encouraging pet owners to be eagle-eyed in monitoring any changes to their dog’s health.
Parvovirus can be life-threatening – especially for dogs under 12 months – and is spread through dog poo which can survive on pavements, soil and other surfaces for several months.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea (often bloody), lethargy and poor appetite, and the RVC says dogs with these symptoms should be taken to their usual vet immediately.
Affected dogs should also be isolated during treatment to prevent the virus from spreading.
The Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital, which is based in Royal College Street, has an isolation facility with a separate entrance so affected dogs can be cared for without risk to others.
Vets at the hospital are urging pet owners to make sure their dogs’ vaccinations and boosters, which include protection against parvovirus, are up-to-date.
Dogs not up to date with their jabs should avoid areas where other dogs are exercised until they get vaccinated.
As the local cases have appeared in the Camden area, London residents in the neighbouring boroughs, are encouraged to be cautious and seek professional veterinary care if they have any concerns.
