There’s a worrisome situation unfolding in east High Point. Guilford County Animal Control is facing an unusual surge in cases of canine parvovirus, a highly contagious disease among dogs. Most of these cases are concentrated within a one-mile radius stretching from Furlough Avenue to Vine Street.
In just the past fortnight, they’ve had to handle 11 dogs afflicted with parvo. This is a significant spike compared to the typical summer tally of just a few cases. Dr. Melinda Whitaker, the chief veterinarian at Guilford County Animal Services, expressed her concerns, remarking on the early onset of the outbreak in the first week of May.
Jorge Ortega, the director of Guilford County Animal Services, echoed these worries, noting that they’re currently isolating around a dozen dogs with parvovirus. Parvo manifests with symptoms like vomiting and bloody diarrhea, and it can be fatal for our beloved pets.
The fact that these sick dogs are all originating from the same neighborhood is alarming. Dr. Whitaker highlighted the potential gaps in care and attention in that area, underscoring the need for prompt action.
One of the most troubling aspects of parvovirus is how swiftly it can spread. As Dr. Whitaker explained, the virus is shed in the feces of infected animals, persisting in the environment for extended periods. This means that even casual contact with contaminated surfaces like grass or sidewalks can lead to transmission, posing a significant risk to other pets in the vicinity.
Guilford County Animal Services stresses the critical importance of pet vaccination in preventing the spread of parvo. While it’s commonly associated with puppies, older dogs are also susceptible if they’re not kept up to date on their vaccinations. In light of the current outbreak, ensuring that pets are properly immunized becomes even more imperative.
