Canine Parvovirus Making Dogs Sick In Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island health officials are warning dog owners that canine parvovirus is spreading around the state.
The Department of Environmental Management says there have been an unusually high number of cases reported to the state officials.
Veterinarians say canine parvovirus, or "parvo," weakens dogs' immune systems and causes them to become more susceptible to infection. Symptoms of the virus include vomiting and diarrhea that can lead to possibly fatal dehydration in some cases.
Officials say parvo doesn't affect humans or other pets but can be severe in dogs that are not immune or have not been vaccinated.
Rhode Island State Veterinarian Scott Marshall says the best protection against parvovirus is vaccination.
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