Dog owners warned of rise in deadly parvovirus
Veterinarians are warning dog owners of a rise in deadly parvovirus. Parvovirus, or parvo, can infect any dog, but it primarily targets puppies and it’s highly contagious. Once infected, the virus attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal system. Parvo can spread from dog to dog, or through contaminated feces or surfaces, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA). People can spread the virus on their hands or clothing, but are immune to its effects. Veterinarians say dogs often stop eating when they’re first infected, and this is followed by lethargic behavior. Puppies usually show intestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. “If you see these symptoms, you need to get treatment for this animal as quickly as you can,” said Tori Fugate of the Kansas City Pet Project. “Parvo is something you can never tell if they’re going to make it or not,” Rachel Lunsford, an urgent care tech at Pet Resource Center of Kansas City, said.
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