4 dogs dead after viral outbreak in Downtown Eastside
Posted January 26, 2026 7:24 pm.
Four dogs are confirmed to have died after an outbreak of canine parvovirus in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES), the BC SPCA says.
The virus is highly contagious and is often deadly in unvaccinated dogs, the group says.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!“A building manager in the area reached out to the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline with concerns about a number of sick animals in their building,” said BC SPCA veterinarian Dr. Kyla Townsend.
In response, and to stop the spread of the disease, Townsend and other volunteers set up an “emergency clinic”, vaccinating 92 dogs.
“As soon as it was confirmed that we were dealing with a possible canine parvovirus outbreak, BC SPCA Vancouver Animal Hospital teams jumped right into planning a free vaccination clinic so vulnerable dogs and puppies could be protected from the virus.”
The vaccinations were administered on Thursday in Oppenheimer Park.
The BC SPCA is recommending pet owners to monitor their animals for the signs of parvovirus, which include lethargy, loss of appetite, severe, often bloody, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and bloating, fever or low body temperature.
“Anyone whose dog or puppy is showing these symptoms should seek veterinary help right away. Early treatment for parvovirus is critical for recovery,” Townsend said.
