CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) - Canine parvovirus can be deadly for man's best friend and cases appear to be on the rise around the Tri-State.
The cases appear to come in waves, according to the Greater Cincinnati Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Services.
"We kind of see different outbreaks because it is such hearty virus. So, I think there's different outbreaks at different times," Lydia Titus said.
Several Tri-State animal rescue agencies report seeing more cases than usual and on Friday Joseph's Legacy Animal Rescue posted pictures of two young puppies the organization took in that are battling the virus.
"Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies younger than four months old are the most at risk," according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
A veterinarian in Pendleton County reported seeing at least 5 cases in the past two weeks.
"Parvovirus is a virus that enters in through the feces and when a dog ingests it, it attacks their intestinal lining and kind of just decreases their nutrients," Lydia Titus said.
There is a vaccination available for dogs. Canine's that have contracted the virus should be quarantined and their living environment should be cleaned and sanitized.
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