Deadly Dog Virus Attacking Local Shelters

PITTSBURGH,None — A deadly dog virus is spreading through the Pittsburgh area and local shelters are educating pet owners.

The Western Pennsylvania Humane Society said it has seen a recent surge in the number of canine parvovirus cases.

The parvo virus attacks the lining of the intestines and prevents dogs from absorbing nutrients. The virus lives in the environment and is transferred through feces and bodily fluids.

The humane society said several of its dogs have already died from the disease and others are being isolated.

"We do supportive care, IV fluids, with the idea of getting them healthy enough so their system can fight them off," said Gretchen Fieser of the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society.

Dogs who are up to date on shots and vaccines are generally protected from the virus according to the humane society.

The humane society is offering vaccines this Sunday at its North Shore shelter at 1101 Western Avenue.

WPXI