(RepublicanInformer.com)- According to Michigan authorities, the illness that sickened and killed dozens of dogs at a county animal shelter was canine parvovirus.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported the outbreak of parvovirus after one animal shelter in Ostego County reported around 30 dogs contracting the virus despite testing negative for it.
Canine parvovirus, which spreads through fecal matter, is a highly contagious and severe disease affecting dogs. The symptoms include tiredness, loss of appetite, and diarrhea.
According to State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, both the state and veterinarians have “extensive experience” in canine parvovirus.
Dogs are typically vaccinated for parvovirus and part of their routine shots. It is dogs that have not been vaccinated that are at risk of infection. Wineland urged Michigan dog owners to work with their vet to ensure their dogs’ shots are all up to date and “timely boosters” are given to make sure their dogs remain protected.
According to Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory director Kim Dodd, the parvo tests administered by clinics and shelters may not be as sensitive as the diagnostic tests performed by a lab. This may explain why the dogs at the shelter had tested negative while having the virus.
Canine parvovirus is not contagious to people or other
