An increase in cases of parvovirus has the city’s Animal Care Services urging pet owners to vaccinate their animals against the very contagious and often fatal disease.
A post from officials indicates the city shelter and veterinary offices are seeing an increase in cases, particularly among puppies and unvaccinated dogs in the Boerne area.
Parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, primarily affects dogs; puppies are at the highest risk. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and spreads quickly through contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces.
“This is a grave diagnosis. Even if the pet survives, they can face a lifetime of reduced capacity and impacts,” said ACS Supervisor Stefanie Fisher.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent parvo, animal care experts said. Puppies require a series of inoculations starting at a young age, followed by boosters to ensure full protection.
Unvaccinated adult dogs are also at risk, officials said.
“We are encouraging everybody to ensure their pets are fully vaccinated and, if not, please schedule an appointment with their veterinarian immediately,” Fisher said.
Symptoms — which often appear suddenly — include loss of appetite, lethargy with rapid onset, vomiting and diarrhea that may contain blood.
Animals showing these signs should receive veterinary care immediately, officials said.
Officials said the reminder comes at a critical time of year, as many families may welcome a new puppy or other young pets into their homes for the Christmas holiday.
Animal-care specialists stress new pets should be kept away from public spaces, dog parks and unfamiliar animals until they are fully vaccinated.
Pet owners should talk to their veterinarians about pet vaccinations and disease prevention, officials added.
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