If you own a dog in Clearfield County, officials said your pet might be at risk.
Animals Matter of Clearfield County President Heather Hoover said that recently, her organization was contacted by the Clearfield Regional Police Department concerning a puppy at Lawrence Park Village. After seeing a video of the 10-month-old dog, she said she knew that it had to immediately be rushed to the Metzger Animal Hospital. After being tested, she said that veterinarians discovered that the dog had parvo.
“The first signs are vomiting and diarrhea. That’s what makes them dehydrate pretty quickly. They don’t eat, they don’t drink and if they’re not treated within days they can die,” said Hoover.
Unfortunately, she said the puppy did not make it. She added that most parvo deaths happen within 48 to 72 hours of the first signs. Now, she said that dog owners in the Lawrence Township and neighboring areas should be highly cautious.
She explained, “It actually can be carried around on your shoes, so in that development and in the apartment that is contaminated, if [someone is] in the apartment and they’re coming out running around the parking lot with their shoes on, if somebody traces their footsteps, they can actually drag it back into their homes. That’s how contagious it is.”
Most importantly, Hoover said to make sure that your dogs are vaccinated. While she said a dog can still get parvo if they’re vaccinated, she explained that the symptoms will be much less deadly. If you’re concerned, she said there are a few more tips to keep your pets safe.
“Make sure you’re bleaching the bottom of your shoes with bleach water before entering your home. Make sure you change your clothes if you come in contact. Make sure they’re washed in hot water and make sure your animals are vaccinated,” said Hoover.
If you have any questions, you can reach out to Animals Matter on Facebook.
Source link https://wjactv.com/news/local/prevent-parvo-spread-outbreak-warning-issued-for-dog-owners-in-clearfield-county
