![\"\"](\"http:\/\/thelehighacresgazette.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Remy-Walden-300x267.jpg\" "\\"Remy")
Lee County Domestic Animal Services is warning pet owners to vaccinate their pets against highly contagious and deadly diseases.\u00a0 This warning comes after a spike in puppies that tested positive for Parvo Virus this past week.\u00a0 These puppies were brought to Animal Services for veterinary care by their owners receiving government public assistance.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is heartbreaking that our tax dollars must be used to euthanize canines exposed to Parvo Virus due to irresponsible owners who do not vaccinate their pets against deadly diseases.\u00a0 A $10 vaccine is much less expensive than treatment or euthanasia if the pet cannot be saved, not to mention the extreme pain and suffering the pet experiences.\u00a0 If you truly care about your pets, you will ensure they are protected through vaccination,\u201d stated shelter director Donna Ward.<\/p>\n
Animal Services protocols include fully vaccinating animals upon intake.\u00a0 Dogs less than one year of age are tested for Parvo Virus.\u00a0 \u201cThese protocols ensure the health of all animals housed in our shelter and pet owners acquiring puppies and adult dogs should follow the same protocols,\u201d stated shelter veterinarian, Dr. Suzanne Vazzana.\u00a0 Dr. Vazzana also recommends pet owners limit their pet\u2019s exposure to other animals by not visiting pet stores, dog beaches and dog parks until their pet has been fully vaccinated.<\/p>\n
Parvo-virus is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their feces or passed along to puppies from unvaccinated nursing mothers.\u00a0 Common signs include severe vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.\u00a0 The virus can live in organic matter, such as soil, and on other hard surfaces within the household for over a year.<\/p>\n