Parvo virus infection detected in pet dog in Shuklaphanta

Kanchanpur: A case of parvo virus infection has been confirmed in Shuklaphanta Municipality, marking the first such detection at the municipality’s Animal Development Branch Treatment Center.

Veterinarian Bhojraj Pandey from the branch said the infection was found in a dog purchased from outside the area. “After vaccination against parvo virus, the dog appeared very weak, so we began treatment with saline water (glucose),” he explained.

According to Pandey, the virus spreads rapidly among dogs aged six months to two years, with a high risk of transmission when puppies are brought in from outside. He warned that dogs in contact with an infected one could also contract the virus, adding that investigations are underway. The infection is more common during summer.

While parvo virus is rare in local breeds, it is frequently seen in exotic breeds brought from abroad. Infected dogs typically show symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, preference for cold places and bushes, foul-smelling stools, and loss of appetite.

“If such symptoms are observed, dogs should be taken to a veterinary hospital immediately for treatment, as the mortality rate from this virus is high. Since public awareness is low, information campaigns are essential,” Dr. Pandey stressed.

Ram Prasad Bhatta, head of the municipality’s animal department, said timely vaccination is the most effective preventive measure. Puppies aged six to eight weeks should be routinely vaccinated against parvo, he noted, adding that changing weather patterns have contributed to the disease’s spread.