RENTON, Wash. — A deadly virus is spreading at dog parks in Washington state. There's believed to be a hot spot for transmission at a popular park in Renton.
"We have been seeing such a big (influx) of parvo-positive pets," said Alecia Dolman, Happy Tail Animal Hospital practice manager.
Happy Tails Animal Hospital in Renton is sounding the alarm for a deadly, highly contagious virus that dog owners need to be aware of.
"It can cause bloody diarrhea, if your pet's lethargic, doesn't want to eat, vomiting then nine times out of 10 you should probably get your pet checked," Dolman said.
The animal hospital has only been open for about nine months, but Dolman said they've had 10-12 parvovirus cases, with one of the dogs unfortunately not making it. Dolman continues to plead for the community to do more to prevent the virus from spreading.
"If people don't scoop their (pet’s) poop, I know it's a law,” Dolman said. “It's really to help prevent the spread of any kind of diseases, whether it be worms, parvo, what not. Then if another animal smells that poop on a walk, then they can contract it that way."
Doleman said all the cases her team has encountered are linked to a popular Renton park.
"They came from Petrovitsky Park, so it's been a really big concern for us," Dolman said.
KING 5 did reach out to King County Parks about this concern. Officials said in a statement saying in part:
"We are aware of the reports, and we are getting signs made to put up around the park. The signs will let people know that there have been reports of canine parvovirus infections in dogs who recently visited Petrovitsky Park and will list preventive measures."
Meanwhile, there is treatment for the parvovirus, which Happy Tail Animal Hospital has in stock. But veterinarians said the best thing owners can do to protect their pets is make sure they are vaccinated.