INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Animal Care Services has seen an increase in canine parvovirus cases at the shelter and is encouraging dog owners to get their pets vaccinated.
Five dogs have tested positive for parvo since coming into IACS on Sunday. The dogs were able to stay with their owners and did not come in contact with the other dogs at the shelter.
IACS offered all five dogs treatment with a voucher.
“Parvo is a highly contagious and deadly virus,” IACS veterinarian Dr. Joe DeBrota said. “Parvo affects both young dogs and unvaccinated adult dogs; for both, it is often fatal.”
The virus is passed through stools and can last in the environment for a year. Parvo has no cure as it is a viral disease.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), lethargy, pain, dehydration, sepsis, and death.
“It is imperative to have your dog or puppy vaccinated against parvo. It’s a preventable illness, and the vaccines are widely available,” Dr. DeBrota said.
As a preventative measure, IACS vaccinates all dogs at intake.
IACS will hold a free parvo vaccine clinic from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 9 at Goodwin Center Parking Lot, 3935 West Mooresville Road Indianapolis, IN 46221.
-
Hoosier cancer survivors urge Congress to protect NIH funding
Hoosier cancer survivors traveled to Washington this week to urge lawmakers to maintain and increase federal funding for cancer research.
Cumberland leaders warn SEA 1 will strain services despite bigger 2026 budget
Cumberland’s newly proposed 2026 budget grows spending by more than 12% over this year’s plan. Town leaders say state tax changes will limit their ability to maintain and grow services.
Vote Center proposal dies in Hamilton County
The Hamilton County Election Board failed to get a unanimous vote it needed to move the county to a countywide Vote Center model.
Indianapolis youth explore careers in public safety and service
Indianapolis youth got to explore meaningful career paths, connect with mentors and engage in interactive demonstrations.
