February 14, 2006

CASES OF CANINE PARVOVIRUS FOUND IN DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Washington Humane Society Calls for Citizens to Protect Their Dogs

Washington, DC - The Washington Humane Society (WHS) today issued an urgent alert that canine parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal dog disease, has been affecting dogs in the District of Columbia. Two areas where the disease seems to be particularly prevalent are in the vicinity of Benning Road and Maryland Avenue, NE, and along East Capitol Street east of the Anacostia River. Dogs anywhere in the city or surrounding area could be at risk. The disease is not transmissible to humans.

Dogs can be protected from the disease by:

• Making sure that they are current on their vaccinations,
• Keeping them away from other dogs, the feces of other dogs, and areas where other dogs may have been,and
• Keeping pet dishes and bedding clean.

Dogs most susceptible to parvovirus are young and elderly animals as well as those whose vaccinations are not up to date.

Any veterinarian can vaccinate a dog against or test a dog for parvovirus. The D.C. Animal Shelter, operated by the Washington Humane Society, provides parvovirus vaccinations to residents of the District of Columbia. The shot costs $3 and can be obtained at the shelter (1201 New York Avenue, NE, 202-576-6664) on Thursdays between 12:00 noon and 8:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary, but proof of residence in the District is required. The vaccination against parvovirus also protects dogs against distemper and several other diseases. Anti-rabies vaccinations, required by law, are also available for an additional $3. The shelter does not test public dogs for parvovirus at the Thursday clinics.

The Washington Humane Society urges pet owners to watch their dogs carefully for symptoms of parvovirus. These include loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, lethargy, and diarrhea (often with blood in the stool). Although the disease is often fatal, getting proper veterinary care soon after the symptoms appear can save an infected dog's life. For help locating a veterinarian, call the D.C. Animal Shelter at 202-576-6664.

The Washington Humane Society works to prevent cruelty and harm to animals by enforcing animal protection laws, offering humane educations classes in D.C. schools, and providing shelter and adoptions for homeless and abused animals of all sorts. Each year, the Washington Humane Society cares for nearly 12,000 animals and responds to 15,500 calls for help. The D.C. Animal Shelter, a city-owned facility, is operated by the Washington Humane Society under a contract administered by the D.C. Department of Health.