Source: 12 News
Arizona is experiencing a sharp increase in canine parvovirus cases, with infections rising 250% compared to the same period last year. Veterinarians are urging pet owners to take preventive action, particularly for puppies, which are most vulnerable to the highly contagious and potentially fatal disease. Parvovirus attacks a dog’s digestive and immune systems and can spread through contaminated surfaces, surviving in the environment for up to two years. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, sometimes with blood.
Emergency veterinarians report seeing a significant rise in cases, often requiring hospitalization and intensive supportive care because there is no specific antiviral treatment. Experts emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection and save lives. Pet owners are advised to avoid taking unvaccinated puppies to public places until their vaccine series is complete. Arizona animal welfare organizations and Veterinary clinics are also offering low-cost vaccination programs to help protect pets from the disease.