Local veterinarian warns of deadly virus affecting dogs in Michiana

MISHAWAKA, Ind. – Dog owners in Michiana are warned about the spread of parvovirus, a deadly virus that can be prevented through vaccination.

Dogs around this time of year are often sick, and the spread of parvovirus is not uncommon.

That is why Dr. Kathleen Neuhoff, a veterinarian for the Magrane Pet Medical Center, is urging dog owners to vaccinate their pets and provide further treatment if necessary.

According to Neuhoff, the parvovirus does not immediately go away.

“One of the problems with parvovirus is once the virus gets in the soil, the virus can live in that soil for a long time...so even if the dog passed [away] 6 months ago, there could still be parvovirus,” Neuhoff said.

According to Neuhoff, the lingering presence of the virus is what leads to so many infections.

Neuhoff also added that she has treated older dogs that were vaccinated at an early age and they did not require boosters to treat the virus.

Symptoms of the virus include diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. Neuhaff says that a dog could die from dehydration in 48 hours if they become infected.

There are different approaches to treating the virus. Neuhoff advises that you consult your Veterinarian to determine the best path forward.