Waikato District Council and Anexa Vets were thrilled with the strong turnout at their inaugural Driving Out Parvo event in Huntly.
Held at Te Whare Awhi Community Centre, the event saw 84 dogs microchipped and 144 vaccinated against parvo – all completely free of charge.
Parvo is a highly contagious virus found in dogs that is extremely life-threatening and very expensive to treat.
The virus can survive in the environment for over a year, putting unvaccinated dogs at risk of infection and further spreading the disease.
Fortunately, the virus is preventable with a simple vaccination.
Waikato District Council Animal Control Education and Engagement Officer Zoey Jackson was delighted with the event’s success.
“It was really special to connect with our community like this, and we're proud to support whaanau who may not always have access to this kind of care for their pets,” she said.
Parvo has been of particular concern to Anexa Vets, who have seen a 244% increase in parvo cases in 2025 up to the end of July.
Anexa veterinarian Dr Barbara Cater administered vaccines on the day, much to the appreciation of attendees.
“It was incredible to see the gratitude from the lovely members of the public who brought their dogs along to be vaccinated,” she said.
“We have undoubtedly saved lives together.”
Due to the success of the event, Waikato District Council and Anexa Vets are looking into holding further pop-up events in the future.
Waikato District Council and Anexa Vets would like to thank our event sponsors who donated vaccines, veterinary supplies, services, funding, and products that made this event possible: Cushman & Wakefield, Donovans New Zealand, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Profile Foods, Sweet As Popcorn, Royal Canin, Superior Pet Food Co, The Dog Rescue Project, Virbac, WashBar, Zealandia Pets, Elanco NZ Pets, and Pets at Wintec. And thank you to Raahui Pookeka Community Centres Trust for allowing us to use their awesome space!
