State officials alert dog owners to watch out for canine parvovirus

Madison Crowley,

BOSTON (WLNE) — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Division of Animal Health is warning owners who have recently purchased a dog in the Massachusetts area of a canine parvovirus, also called “parvo”.

MDAR reported that at least one dog in Orange, Massachusetts has been affected.

MDAR is advising that anyone who may have recently purchased a puppy or dog from this area on or after December 1, 2023, should contact their veterinarian immediately if their dog is exhibiting any of he following symptoms:

  • severe vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • bloody stools
  • fever
  • lethargy
  • loss of appetite

Parvo symptoms usually develop after an incubation period of three to seven days, and dogs that have been infected and recover can remain infections for up to several months, MDAR shared.

MDAR is urging dog owners to check with their veterinarians to confirm their pets are vaccinated against the virus. Puppies require a series of vaccinations, and adult dogs are encouraged to get a yearly booster.

State animal health officials advise that pet owners do not give their dogs any medications that are not prescribed by a veterinarian.

Please contact MDAR’s Division of Animal Health at (617) 626-1795 with any concerns, or visit the AVMA page.

Categories: News

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