A parvovirus outbreak that has killed at least 10 dogs has prompted the Town of Inuvik to offer free vaccinations.
“The Town of Inuvik is currently experiencing an increase of dogs falling ill to what we suspect is the parvovirus, which affects canines,” said TJ Moore, municipal enforcement officer.
Usually, the town sees about two to four dogs experience the illness per year, but at least 10 dogs have already succumbed to it in the past three weeks.
The town has teamed up with Arctic Paws, who purchased more than 150 vaccinations, to try to stem any future outbreaks.
“The most effective means of preventing this illness is providing vaccinations for dogs,” said Moore.
The vaccination does not help dogs that are already sick, but anyone with dogs that have not been vaccinated or need a booster shot is encouraged to contact the town and schedule an appointment.
Moore said the town had already performed 30 vaccinations, which are free, with many more lined up last week.
Dogs with the parvovirus often have no symptoms for a couple of days after coming in contact with it, but then begin to show lethargy or extreme tiredness. The most serious symptoms are bloody vomit or diarrhea, as the virus erodes the dog’s stomach lining, which can cause infection and dehydration.
Humans and other animals are not affected by the virus, but anything an infected dog comes in contact with can pass it on to other dogs.
“Any person who believes that their animal is sick should immediately quarantine the animal away from all other animals and try to keep it away from any source of spreading, provide lots of hydration and water to the animal and contact a vet if they want any more information,” said Moore.
The virus has always been in Inuvik, but an increase of unvaccinated dogs has made its spread much easier.
“Due to unvaccinated dogs picking up the virus and becoming sick, everywhere they come in contact with they’re leaving the virus behind,” said Moore. “Without being vaccinated, it’s very susceptible for an animal to fall ill to this virus.”
The town believes the virus would continue to spread without preventative vaccination.
Same old dogs at large
Also on the subject of dogs, Facebook has been active lately with people concerned about loose dogs posing threats to children.
Moore said there is a normal amount of dogs at large but a few repeat offenders.
“We’re seeing the same couple of dogs always getting loose,” he said.