GREENSBORO, N.C. — No new cases of parvovirus have been reported at Guilford County Animal Services. It started last week when two cases were reported at the shelter forcing them to enter a two-week "quarantine intake". Both dogs with the virus had to be put down.
Even though no new cases have been reported, the shelter will be in quarantine for one more week. Since the virus is highly infectious, they will not be accepting certain dogs into their resource center at 980 Guilford College Road.
Director Jorge Ortega said dangerous dogs and dogs involved with bites or anything similar to the situation will still be admitted into the center. They believe the virus was brought from another infected dog there.
The American Veterinary Medical Association said 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.
Some of the signs include lethargy; loss of appetite; abdominal pain and bloating; fever or low body temperature (hypothermia); vomiting; and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock. If your puppy or dog shows any of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Vaccination and good hygiene are the bests ways to prevent parvovirus.