The Quinte Humane Society is sad to announce that Parvovirus has been detected in a number of dogs at the shelter. It did not originate at the shelter but is suspected to have gotten into the population via a dog that was shedding the virus but was not symptomatic. The shelter does vaccinate most dogs upon arrival and so most of the population should have a degree of protection but unfortunately there were a large number of puppies who were too young to vaccinate.

A number of puppies were adopted out into the community that may have been exposed and the Humane Society is taking steps to contact all the adopters and notify them of the situation.

Due to the measures that are in place to try and save as many dogs as possible and contain the virus, the shelter’s dog area will be closed for a couple of weeks until it is deemed safe to resume normal operations.

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can produce a life-threatening illness in dogs. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells in a dog’s body, most severely affecting the intestinal tract. Parvovirus also attacks the white blood cells, and when young animals are infected, the virus can damage the heart muscle and cause lifelong cardiac problems.

The Quinte Humane Society is doing its’ best to save as many animals as possible during this difficult situation and appreciates the communities support.