Eleven dogs and puppies in the Regina area have been euthanized after being diagnosed with a deadly disease.
The Regina Humane Society told 980 CJME it has received six puppies from a rural area, two pups off the street and three adult dogs from multiple sources that have been diagnosed with the canine parvovirus over the past two weeks. The disease is serious and easily transmittable which can be fatal.
The disease is most often transmitted through faecal or oral contact between dogs. The disease can survive up to a year in the environment and can be transmitted through indirect contact with contaminated items, such as shoes, clothes and the ground.
The humane society indicated the disease is preventable through vaccinations beginning when the dog is six to eight weeks old.
Owners are warned to be cautious when walking dogs in public areas where other animals can be.
Symptoms of the virus include:
• Severe bloody diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Severe weight loss
If owners notice any of these symptoms become present, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.
On average the society normally sees around 20 cases of parvovirus per year.