Veterinarians in San Antonio Raise Alarm Over Recent 20% Surge in Fatal Parvovirus Cases Following Recent Rains
San Antonio Struggles with a Surge in Parvovirus Cases
Recent rains in San Antonio have apparently brought about more than just water. Veterinarians are diligently cautioning dog owners to be vigilant, reminding them to protect their dogs as there has been a noticeable increase in the dangerous and often fatal infection known as Parvovirus. According to the San Antonio Animal Care Services, there has been a 20% rise in Parvovirus cases over the past month.
Parvovirus: A Major Threat to Dogs’ Health
Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that particularly targets puppies. The National Library of Medicine cites that an staggering 91% of untreated puppies and 10% of adult dogs succumb to this frightening virus. Even with treatment, the statistics remain alarming, with 5-20% of treated dogs not surviving the virus.
Parvovirus causes severe dehydration over the course of just seven days, or sometimes even faster. With weaker immune systems, young puppies are more susceptible to suffering more severe consequences of this virus.
The Deadly Aftermath of Parvovirus
Victoria Perry, a San Antonio resident and dog owner, shared her heartbreaking story of losing two of her six-month-old puppies to Parvovirus a couple of years ago. “It was very, very traumatic…we of course, wonder if we should have taken him somewhere else. But I mean, there’s no way to know,” reminisced Victoria about her tragic experience.
A Connection between Recent Rains and the Increase in Parvovirus
Chelsea Arch, ACS Pet Clinic Operations Manager and a dog owner who has herself lost a dog to Parvovirus, believes that the recent rains could be making the virus more accessible to dogs. According to Arch, the rain tends to stir up topsoil, which can then expose the virus into the environment.
Protecting Your Dogs from Parvovirus
Both Arch and Perry urge dog owners to be cautious and protect their dogs by ensuring their vaccinations are up-to-date, particularly if they frequent dog parks or other public spaces. According to Chelsea, vaccination is number one in the fight against Parvovirus.
In addition, the best way to guard your dogs from this deadly virus includes keeping them away from other dogs’ feces, collecting and properly disposing of your dog’s feces, refraining from walking them in public spaces until they have received their vaccinations, and washing your hands and changing your clothes if you come into contact with dogs exposed to Parvovirus.
For more comprehensive information regarding pet vaccinations, please consider paying a visit to the San Antonio Animal Care Services.