Puppy At Anne Arundel County Clinic Showing Signs Of Parvovirus

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — The Anne Arundel County Animal Care & Control advises anyone who brought their dog to the weekly rabies/microchip clinic on Thursday, Aug. 22, at the shelter to closely watch their dogs for signs of canine parvovirus.

The shelter received notice that a puppy at the Aug. 22 clinic began showing symptoms of parvovirus later that same day. The incubation period after exposure to the parvovirus typically is three to seven days but the disease can exist for longer periods.

"We encourage you to ensure you dogs are properly vaccinated against parvovirus and if you notice any of the common symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of appetite or fever that you immediately consult your veterinarian," the shelter stated on its Facebook page. "It is best for pet owners, particularly owners of puppies without the full series of vaccinations against parvovirus to be extra cautious to minimize potential exposure and ensure they complete the full series."

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies younger than four months old are the most at risk. The virus affects dogs' gastrointestinal tracts and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated feces (stool), environments or people.

The virus also can contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs, the AVMA's website stated. It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity and drying, and can survive in the environment for long periods of time.

"Even trace amounts of feces from an infected dog may harbor the virus and infect other dogs that come into the infected environment. The virus is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes or other objects," the AVMA explained.