STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — The Stafford County Animal Shelter is temporarily halting dog adoptions for the second time in as many months. Again, the shelter is faced with concerns about parvovirus.
The shelter is also not accepting any do surrenders, except for emergency situations. On Facebook, shelter officials said they hope to resume regular shelter operations on Jan. 22.
“This is definitely not the start to 2024 that we wanted but the staff is working tirelessly, as always, to ensure the safety and well being of all of our furry friends,” Lauren Hopkins, the animal shelter’s manager, told Patch. “We currently have one dog who is testing positive for parvovirus and it appears to have hit him pretty hard.”
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The affected dog, Zion, is receiving treatment at the Virginia Veterinary Center in Fredericksburg.
“Because his condition deteriorated so quickly, it was vital to get him somewhere he could receive medical attention around the clock. An NG tube was placed to provide nutrition short term but he still has a long way to go,” Hopkins said. “I spoke with VVC this morning and it sounds like he is already feeling better and offering tail wags and kisses to the dedicated few who get to care for him in isolation so we are hopeful he will make a full recovery.”
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Parvovirus can infect cats and dogs, though it’s typically seen in canines, the American Veterinary Medical Association says on its website. The virus affects white blood cells and the gastrointestinal tract. It can also damage the heart muscle of younger dogs, the experts said.
The positive parvovirus test prompts a 14-day adoption floor closure.
“This is not only a precaution to protect the dogs in our care, but to prevent this terrible illness from spreading to other dogs in our area,” Hopkins said. “In an effort to help, Dr. Laura from Loving Touch Animal Hospital is once again donating her time and vaccinating all of our dogs that are currently unvaccinated. Because our shelter does not have a vet on staff, times like these are especially hard on us and we relay heavily on the amazing veterinarians and staff from local clinics.”
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Parvovirus can be highly contagious among dogs, especially those who are in close proximity. The virus can spread through direct contact with an infected dog, contact with an infected dog’s feces, or contact with contaminated surface.
Even small amounts of feces from a sick dog can spread the infection, the AVMA said. Experts recommend dogs get vaccinated against the virus and encourage owners to practice good pet hygiene.
During difficult times, the animal shelter relies on support from local community members. Shelter officials said residents can help by buying items from their Chewy and Amazon wish lists. Donations are also being accepted for Zion’s medical care.
“Additionally, the staff would like to encourage everyone to get your animals vaccinated to help prevent the spread of illnesses such as parvo within our community,” Hopkins said.
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