Prince George, B.C.- This is the time of the year that can be deadly for young dogs.

 

Parvo virus is highly contagious among canines, and has resulted in some dogs at the SPCA shelter in Prince George having to be euthanized.  

  

There have been two cases of Parvo virus at the SPCA’s animal shelter in Prince Georege  says Manager Anne Gough “The first case  was on the 24^th of March, the second on the 29^th. As a result our dog adoption area is closed, and those animals are under quarantine.”

 

The quarantine will last until at least the 12^th of April.

The  shelter on Landsdown Road remains open  during  regular hours, and it will continue to  accept animals,  however, the  dog adoptions are on hold for now.

 

Parvo is spread through canine feces. This is the time of year when, as the snow melts, the evidence of canine sins of winter are revealed and parvo virus is very hardy.  Some information indicates it can survive wild swings in temperature and can live up to 9 months.  It takes up to 10 days after exposure  to the virus  for the  symptoms of the illness to  show in a dog that has  become infected.

 

Parvo virus attacks the intestinal lining of the dog, causing diarrhea and vomiting.  It leaves dogs and pups unable to  absorb the nutrients and liquids they need. Symptoms include: high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting and bloody diarrhea.

 

In very young dogs it can infect the heart muscle causing sudden death.

 

Vets say the best way to attack parvo virus is through prevention, by making certain your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.