Louisa County has closed the doors to its only animal shelter, following the deaths of two puppies from the highly contagious canine parvovirus. Louisa County is tackling the canine parvo problem head on by closing the animal shelter until June 21. That's when they will have the all clear if there are no new cases.
Veterinary tests on Friday afternoon confirm that two puppies have died from it.
Louisa County General Services Director Kevin Linhares stated, "In Louisa County, the health, safety and welfare of animals is very important to us."
Both puppies, a Chihuahua and a Husky mix died after they were adopted. The first happened two weeks ago. The second was on Wednesday. Canine parvo is a contagious virus that spreads from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their feces.
"You can walk in. Get it on your feet and actually take it out of the shelter and take it to your own pet," explained Linhares.
"The shelter facility and grounds will be scrubbed to eradicate any possible parvo virus," said Louisa County Administrator Robert Dube.
In the meantime, the dogs currently inside the shelter are being quarantined and observed. The shelter is also contacting those who have adopted dogs within the last month and a half as a precaution.
Linhares explained, "To make sure they're taken to the vet. Had them checked out. Had their vaccines and everything that they need."
It is important to note that canine parvovirus cannot infect humans or cats. Those who think their dog may have parvo should contact their vet immediately.
