An outbreak of parvovirus at the North Cariboo SPCA shelter has resulted in the shelter's dogs being quarantined.
The virus can be deadly to dogs, and is particularly dangerous to puppies which have not been vaccinated. However the disease is not dangerous to humans, cats or other pets.
The dog kennels at the SCPA have been closed to the public to prevent the spread of the disease.
Symptoms of the disease in puppies include severe diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite and listlessness. In adult dogs, the disease usually manifests as mild diarrhea.
There is no treatment for parvovirus once a dog or puppy has contracted it, except to keep them hydrated and prevent secondary infections.
Dog owners, and especially puppy owners, are advised to take precautions. Unvaccinated puppies should be kept away from public dog parks where melting snow has uncovered substantial amounts of dog feces.
The virus is primarily spread by dog feces - the virus can be contained in a dog's feces for weeks after they have stopped showing signs of infection.
In addition, the virus can survive in feces for months and can be spread from grass, clothing and other objects.
The shelter, located off Landsdowne Road continues to be open regular hours. However all dog adoptions are on hold.
Branch manager Ann Gough could not be reached for comment as of press time. No details about the cause or duration of the quarantine was available as of press time.
