Maharashtra: Dogs affected by ‘Canine parvovirus’
In November 2021, around 2,000 pet and stray dogs in Amravati city were affected by canine parvovirus. Veterinarians also cautioned pet owners against a severe outbreak.
About Canine Parvovirus
- It is a highly contagious viral disease, which can be life-threatening for dogs.
- This virus affects the intestinal tract of canines.
- Puppies are more susceptible to this virus.
- Symptoms associated with the virus include- vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, dehydration, drastic weight loss, and lethargy.
- Parvovirus has reported a 90 per cent mortality rate.
Cases in Amravati
- In Amravati, around 2000 pet and stray dogs were affected by Parvovirus in November 2021. It accounted for 50 per cent dog population in city.
- According to Amravati-based WASA Conservation organisation, government-run clinic is getting reports that 20 dogs affected by this virus daily.
- Experts are of the view that, increasing cases of Parvovirus in pets is due to Covid-19 pandemic. Pandemic has compelled many pet owners to miss timely vaccination of their dogs.
- Furthermore, in last three years, animal birth control programme has not been implemented. This has led to rising parvovirus cases in street dogs because birth control programme helps in controlling stray dog population, dog vaccination and rabies.
Spread of virus
Parvovirus spreads through direct contact with the infected dog or by indirect contact with any contaminated object, like hands and clothing of people handling infected dogs. Dogs get exposed to the virus with sniffs, licks, or when they consume infected faeces. Virus can also transmit indirectly when dogs come in touch with the person, who has recently been exposed to an infected dog or when dogs come in contact with contaminated object, such as food or water bowl, collars and leashes.
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Month: Current Affairs - December, 2021