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Canine parvovirus cases ‘alarmingly high’ in Northern Santa Barbara Co., officials say

Posted at 11:40 AM, Nov 06, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-06 14:40:59-05

Canine parvovirus cases are on the rise in northern Santa Barbara County.

The Santa Barbara County Health Department reports there have been nine confirmed cases at the Santa Maria Animal Center in the last two weeks. Local veterinarians are also reporting a “significant” increases in cases at their practices.

The dogs range in age from 6 weeks to 5 months, officials say, who add that the recent cases at the shelter have been in animals from the Santa Maria area.

Parvovirus is mainly seen in young puppies but can affect any unvaccinated dog.

The virus keeps dogs from properly absorbing nutrients.

Symptoms include a high fever, lethargy, depression, and loss of appetite. Other, more severe symptoms can follow.

Health officials urge anyone with puppies to get them vaccinated against the virus.