GWIC has received confirmation that a greyhound property in the Northern Rivers has tested positive for infectious canine diarrhoea (canine coronavirus). Trainers in the region should monitor their greyhounds for the following symptoms:

• loss of appetite
• diarrhoea
• fever
• vomiting
• lethargy

Please immediately isolate (in a separate kennel area with no contact with other greyhounds) any greyhounds that show symptoms of the disease and notify GWIC on 13 49 42 or  vets@gwic.nsw.gov.au

Seek veterinary care for young puppies and affected older greyhounds; those having a high fever and vomiting; and those which have symptoms of diarrhoea for more than two days.

Do not move greyhounds that are sick, other than to transport to a veterinary clinic for treatment and observe strict biosecurity practices to prevent transmission; GWIC vets are happy to assist with advice and strategies to limit spread.

Whilst there will be no interruption to racing at this time, it is extremely important that all NSW trainers who race in the Northern Rivers closely examine their greyhounds for any signs of infection. If a trainer suspects their greyhounds are suffering from any infection, they should quarantine that greyhound immediately and contact GWIC on 13 49 42. Infectious canine diarrhoea is a reportable disease under the Greyhound Racing Rules.

GWIC urges all greyhound trainers to make sure that your greyhound's vaccinations are current.

For more information on infectious canine diarrhoea and biosecurity tips, see our fact sheet.

Note: Canine coronavirus is not linked to the strain of coronavirus COVID-19 currently affecting humans.