Second Chance Responds as Springfield Sees Increase in Canine Parvovirus Cases

SPRINGFIELD — Second Chance Animal Services’ mobile veterinary clinic was in the State Street area of Springfield on Monday after the state confirmed seven cases of canine parvovirus (CPV) in the last month. Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal infectious disease that affects primarily young or unvaccinated dogs. Infection occurs following exposure to contaminated feces. Second Chance veterinarians were on hand to assess the situation, provide free vaccinations, and start treatment for any dogs found to be sick.

“Parvovirus can persist in the environment for months to years, and nearly all dogs will become exposed at some point throughout their lives,” Second Chance Medical Director Dr. Ashley Raymond said. “Some breeds have also been shown to be at an increased risk of infection, including rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, Labrador retrievers, American Staffordshire terriers, and sled-dog breeds.”

Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato, who is very concerned about the recent uptick, added that “Second Chance holds community vaccine clinics to help prevent situations like this. We just held a free parvovirus vaccine clinic in Springfield two weekends ago, and another free clinic in Palmer in July. We are now working to set up additional dates and locations to stop the spread of this deadly disease.”

Raymond wants dog owners to check their pet’s vaccine records to make sure they are protected. “Vaccination for parvovirus is highly effective and is considered a core vaccine for all dogs. Puppies as young as 6 weeks can receive their first vaccine, which should be repeated every three to four weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. Puppies and dogs who have not completed their vaccine series should not be out in the public (going on walks, dog parks, etc.) or around other dogs of unknown vaccine history due to risk of contracting parvovirus.”

Parvovirus symptoms typically begin within 7 to 14 days following exposure to the virus and most often include significant diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting, depression, lethargy, and anorexia. Complications from the virus can also lead to anemia, severe dehydration, blood-clotting abnormalities, secondary infections, seizures, and death.

“If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if young or unvaccinated, you should call your veterinarian right away,” Raymond said. “Let them know if you think your dog has been exposed to the virus. Prognosis is variable depending on the severity of symptoms, age, concurrent illnesses, and level of care received. If your dog has been diagnosed, it is recommended that other dogs in the household receive a booster vaccination immediately and are kept strictly separated from the infected dog. The home should be disinfected, and all fecal material needs to be thoroughly removed and cleaned.”