The Houlton Police Department is warning dog owners that several animals in that community have tested positive for the potentially deadly canine parvovirus.Animal experts say canine parvovirus (CPV, or parvo) is one of the most serious viruses that dogs and puppies can get. It typically causes severe illness in young and unvaccinated dogs. Parvo is spread by contact with contaminated feces. The virus can also live on surfaces that have been contaminated.There has been an increase in cases in Maine since late last year. The Eastern Maine Emergency Veterinary Clinic recently said dogs are being brought in to their facility with the disease almost every week.Parvo primarily affects the body’s rapidly dividing cells, meaning the intestinal tract and bone marrow are the most affected.There is no specific cure for parvovirus in dogs and puppies, but there are treatments and vaccination is highly effective at preventing the virus when administered as directed by veterinarians. Puppies are most vulnerable to the virus, but older dogs that are unvaccinated and/or have compromised immune systems are also at risk. If your dog is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme lethargy, you are asked to quarantine them from other dogs immediately and seek veterinary attention.Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can quickly cause dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock. This can lead to death, with most deaths occurring within 48 to 72 hours after signs first appear.
HOULTON, Maine —
The Houlton Police Department is warning dog owners that several animals in that community have tested positive for the potentially deadly canine parvovirus.
Animal experts say canine parvovirus (CPV, or parvo) is one of the most serious viruses that dogs and puppies can get. It typically causes severe illness in young and unvaccinated dogs. Parvo is spread by contact with contaminated feces. The virus can also live on surfaces that have been contaminated.
There has been an increase in cases in Maine since late last year. The Eastern Maine Emergency Veterinary Clinic recently said dogs are being brought in to their facility with the disease almost every week.
Parvo primarily affects the body’s rapidly dividing cells, meaning the intestinal tract and bone marrow are the most affected.
There is no specific cure for parvovirus in dogs and puppies, but there are treatments and vaccination is highly effective at preventing the virus when administered as directed by veterinarians.
Puppies are most vulnerable to the virus, but older dogs that are unvaccinated and/or have compromised immune systems are also at risk.
If your dog is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme lethargy, you are asked to quarantine them from other dogs immediately and seek veterinary attention.
Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can quickly cause dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock. This can lead to death, with most deaths occurring within 48 to 72 hours after signs first appear.