Free Parvo clinic planned to combat Parvo outbreak in Chicopee

Due to a recent outbreak of Parvo in dogs in the Chicopee area, Second Chance Animal Shelter is hosting a second free parvo clinic for residents to help combat this deadly disease. “There have been several reported cases of parvo in the Chicopee area and we want to ensure that every dog in that area has access to the vaccinations they need to prevent this” stated Sheryl Blancato, Executive Director. “We were here a few weeks ago in the area doing these vaccines in the targeted area where the disease had the highest reports. This is a highly contagious disease and can be easily transmitted. The best protection is prevention by getting the vaccine. Several dogs have been infected and there have been reported deaths as well”.

Second Chance will be holding the free clinic on Friday, May 26th from 9 AM to 12 PM at River Park, 41 Meadow Street in Chicopee. The parvo/distemper vaccine is free. You must show proof of a rabies vaccine for your dog in the form of the rabies certificate. If you do not have a valid rabies vaccine for your pet, you will need to get one at this clinic and the cost is $5.00. All dogs must be on leash. This vaccine can only be administered to healthy pets. If your dog appears to be ill, you should get your pet to your veterinarian. Second Chance is one of the largest and most diverse animal welfare organization in MA and the only animal welfare organization that operates veterinary clinics which include subsidized rates for those that qualify. One of their clinics is located on Belmont Ave. in Springfield. “We offer walk in clinics every week at our veterinary clinics for rabies and parvo/distemper vaccines on Mondays. We know this is the only way to combat these types of outbreaks” noted Mrs. Blancato. “We are also extremely grateful that the Mass. Animal Fund is partnering with us on this clinic by providing us with funding for the vaccines. The state Dept. of Agriculture knows how deadly this disease is and we are pleased that they are working with our veterinarians on this second clinic we are doing in this area”.

“With the warm weather and dogs out enjoying walks, the risk of unvaccinated dogs picking up the disease is great. But, many people don’t realize that you can actually bring the disease into your home by walking in an area where an infected dog has been. You can bring it in on your shoes or clothes. The only way to prevent your dog from getting sick is to be sure they are properly vaccinated” stated Mrs. Blancato. “If a pet has never received a parvo/distemper vaccine in the past, they will need to get another one in 3-4 weeks to complete the series. Our clinic in Springfield is nearby and people can go there in 3-4 weeks if needed for the follow up vaccine. The cost there is only $12.00 and includes the brief vaccine exam. If the dog has been vaccinated in the past and this is just a booster, then this vaccine does not need a follow up vaccine in 3-4 weeks.”

Parvo is a deadly disease that affects dogs. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. They can decline quickly and should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.