print  |  email

Wake Animal Center Sees Increase in Parvovirus


1/24/2008

The Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center is experiencing a busier-than-normal parvovirus season, prompting officials to urge citizens to make sure their dogs are vaccinated against parvovirus and to recognize its symptoms.

  • What is canine parvovirus? A highly contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the gastrointestinal tract of puppies and dogs.
  • How is parvovirus spread? Puppies and dogs usually become infected when they ingest virus that is passed in the stool of an infected dog. Parvovirus is resistant to changes in the environment and can survive for months, including in trace amounts of fecal material. The virus is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs, or via contaminated cages, shoes or other objects. Rodents and flies can also transmit the virus.
  • Is my dog at risk? All dogs are at risk, but puppies less than four months of age and dogs that have not been vaccinated against the virus are at increased risk.
  • What are signs of parvovirus infection? Lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, and severe and often bloody diarrhea. This causes rapid dehydration. Most deaths from parvovirus occur within 48 to 72 hours following onset of clinical signs. Should your dog show any of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
  • Can it be treated? Parvovirus has no cure; only supportive care can be provided. This supportive care is not 100 percent successful, and animals that survive can have further medical problems. Contact your local veterinarian for more information.
  • How can I prevent my dog from getting parvovirus? Vaccination and proper hygiene are the only way to prevent parvovirus. Vaccination does not provide instant immunity but is the best weapon against infection. Until a puppy has established immunity, owners should avoid bringing their puppy to public places or around other dogs. Most importantly, do not allow your dog to come in contact with any fecal waste of other dogs.

"This is the time of year for puppies, and puppies are at high risk for parvo," said Wake County Animal Control Director Michael Williams.

With the increased incidence of the virus, Wake County is currently not offering puppies less than four months old for adoption.

The Wake County Animal Center remains open to the public. Many healthy and friendly dogs and cats are available for adoption.

Safety measures are in place to reduce the chances of disease transmission among dogs in the shelter, including:

  • Each potential adopter must wear an isolation gown.
  • Dogs cannot leave their kennel until they are adopted. Visitation is restricted to their kennels.
  • No one under 18 years old is allowed in the canine visitation area.

"The Animal Center is a reflection of the community," added Williams. "Parvovirus exists in the public - so please ensure your animal is vaccinated."

For more informqation contact your local veterinarian or visit www.avma.org/communications/brochures/canine_parvo/parvo_brochure.asp.



back to current news items