VIC Canine Coronavirus Outbreak Confirmed

Following an outbreak of the Canine Coronavirus in Victoria, GRV has put restrictions in place in a bid to stop any further spread of the disease.

Following an outbreak of Canine Coronavirus in greyhounds within Victoria, Greyhound Racing Victoria has moved to mandate the isolation of any new greyhounds arriving into the state to prevent any further spread of the disease.

Rob Camilleri spoke to the Recorder today about the Canine Coronavirus outbreak at his Lara property

"Although the virus is currently isolated to one property only, we have taken these steps to ensure the welfare of the dogs as well as the maintenance of the racing fields," explained GRV CEO Alan Clayton.

Canine Coronavirus has been an active illness in all dogs (domestic and working) for some time in Australia, with there being similar outbreaks in greyhounds in other states since the start of this year.

The virus causes dogs to have colds, vomiting and at times diarrhoea.

Canine Coronavirus is not transferable to human beings and does not cause dogs to die.

The following actions are being undertaken to further isolate the virus:

– Any greyhound with signs of disease is to be isolated.

– Any greyhounds which have been in contact with affected greyhounds will be withdrawn from race meetings for a period of 14 days.

– GRV Investigators will inspect all properties that are linked to race meetings where the infected dogs raced during the week.

– Interstate nominations have been prohibited.

– Arm trials will be prohibited without their own lure during the next period.

– Other operational changes to the race program which will be announced specifically to participants.

Mr Clayton said that each greyhound racing participant will also be contacted via phone to assess the general health of their greyhounds and ensure they not bring affected dogs into contact with those dogs which were not affected.

"We are taking every step we believe possible to stop the spreading of the virus and we are grateful to the participants for assisting us with this process," Mr Clayton said.

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