The Yancey County Humane Society is urging community members to vaccinate their pets after multiple dogs and puppies brought to the shelter were diagnosed with parvo. Parvo, or canine parvovirus, is a highly contagious virus that attacks the blood cells and gastrointestinal tract of dogs. The disease can also damage the heart muscle. Shelter representatives report that 12 dogs and puppies brought in over the past week have tested positive for parvo, and say the virus is currently spreading throughout the community and surrounding areas. Parvo treatment costs thousands of dollars per dog and requires intense cleaning of all areas. Pet owners are urged to vaccinate their dogs and puppies to keep them safe.
One of the pups affected by the parvo virus