A mysterious virus that swept across the northern and central parts of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, killing dozens of dogs, has been identified as Canine parvovirus, state officials announced on Aug. 24.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development stated the news after an Otsego County animal shelter reported more than 30 dogs that died from the illness which was then not properly identified.
Kim Dodd, director of Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, said in a Wednesday news release that the dogs were diagnosed with parvovirus despite having “consistently” tested negative.
“We continue to further characterize the virus in hopes of better understanding why those animals were testing negative on screening tests,” Dodd said.
Canine parvovirus is transmitted between canines through fecal matter. Dogs exhibit symptoms of vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
A vaccine is available.
“We have a highly effective vaccine available to help protect dogs from the virus,” said Nora Wineland, a state veterinarian.
“Dogs that are not fully vaccinated against this virus are the most at risk. Dog owners across Michigan must work closely with their veterinarians to ensure their dogs are appropriately vaccinated and given timely boosters to keep their pets safe and healthy.”
Similar reports have been made in Clare County, and throughout the rest of the state.
“Canine parvovirus is a severe and highly contagious disease in dogs, but the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and veterinary professionals have extensive experience with this virus,” Wineland said.
“We immediately reached out to the veterinarians and animal shelters involved and began our response efforts,” she added.
Experts are encouraging dog owners to protect their animals by reducing interaction until they are safely vaccinated and to clean up any mess they leave in public areas. It also helps to stay up to date with routine vaccinations against rabies, canine distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis in addition to vaccine parvovirus.
Canine parvovirus is a common disease in Michigan and does not need to be reported. The virus is not transmissible to other species apart from canines.
