Deadly dog virus spreading this summer
5:23 p.m. Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Fort Riley — “It’s really contagious, really contagious,” Ft. Riley, Sr. Animal Tech, David Bartholomew said.
It’s called Parvo or parvovirus, it only affects dogs, and right now several cases have been turning up on post. Bartholomew recommends pet owners everywhere keep a close watch on their dogs.
“It’s everywhere this time of year; it comes in spurts,” Bartholomew said.
Symptoms
Parvo is a highly contagious, often fatal viral disease of dogs, characterized by vomiting, severe diarrhea, and depression and accompanied by high fever and loss of appetite. Dogs that have parvovirus will also experience lethargy and could experience severe gastrointestinal distress or even death.
If you think your dog may have this disease, seek help from your veterinarian immediately.
Related links: Parvo-virus.com
WorkingDogs.com.
The senior animal technician at the post hasn’t seen many cases of Parvo in years.
“Basically an intestinal disease spread by feces,” he said. “We do have a situation which we’re dealing with.”
Fort Riley’s garrison commander was quick to take action as well.
Rex’s bark park at Fort Riley quickly became a hot spot for man’s best friend but, right now it’s temporarily locked and off limits after seven dogs were diagnosed with the serious and often deadly virus.
Bartholomew said if your dog is showing signs of illness; take them to their local vet or emergency pet hospital as soon as possible.
Symptoms include: Nausea, vomiting, bloody stool, and dogs get very sleepy, lose their appetite or won’t drink.
And, puppies are more likely to catch the virus because their immune systems aren’t fully developed, Bartholomew said.
Though it’s not completely breed specific, larger breeds of dogs are more likely to catch the deadly virus.
Bartholomew said getting your puppy immunized is key, but if your dog hasn’t had its shots and shows symptoms, early treatment increases the chance of survival.
“We had one this morning that was just in the initial stage,” he said. “So the likelihood of that dog surviving is very good.”
“Definitely keep an eye on them. This will eventually go away, it always does,” he said.
Fort Riley veterinary services are open to answer questions or concerns about Parvo or to immunize your pets. You can reach them at (785) 239-3886
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