The “mystery” illness that has been killing dozens of dogs in Michigan has been identified at the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MSU VDL). According to a news release from the state’s department of agriculture, the virus that has been killing pets in the northern Lower Peninsula area is parvovirus.
Prior to testing done at the diagnostic laboratory, all of the impacted dogs had tested negative for parvo. MSU VDL director Kim Dodd, DVM, explains:
“This situation is complex because although the dogs displayed clinical signs suggestive of parvovirus, they consistently test negative by point-of-care tests performed in clinics and shelters. Screening tests for parvo are done to help guide immediate isolation, disinfection, and treatment protocols. While those tests are valuable in the clinical setting, they are not as sensitive as the diagnostic tests we can perform here in the laboratory. We continue to further characterize the virus in hopes of better understanding why those animals were testing negative on screening tests.”
Parvo is highly contagious, but there is an effective vaccine available for dogs. State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM, said:
“We have a highly effective vaccine available to help protect dogs from the virus. 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. Protecting Michigan’s dogs is a team effort.”
Original news about this deadly virus here.
Follow the National Animal News Facebook page for more news, updates, and petitions.
