An outbreak of canine parvovirus in downtown Windsor has now claimed the lives of 18 dogs, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
Brent Ross told CTV News, Animal Welfare Services (AWS) continues to strongly recommend concerned dog owners contact a veterinarian.
“As of December 18, AWS has removed 24 dogs which were either sick or at risk of becoming sick. An additional 10 animals were taken to local veterinary clinics for treatment by their owners or humane societies,” Ross said in a statement.
On Dec. 13, CTV News reported a deadly outbreak in the Glengarry neighbourhood left 11 dogs dead and eight in the care of AWS.
This past weekend, AWS and its partners vaccinated 65 dogs during a vaccination clinic. A mobile clinic was held in part by the Windsor-Essex Humane Society, Chatham Pet and Wildlife Rescue and the Hamilton-Burlington SPCA to provide free parvovirus vaccinations.
Ross said AWS is aware of more cases of parvovirus concerns in the community and is working with humane society partners to hold additional clinics in partnership Windsor-Essex Humane Society and Hamilton-Burlington SPCA.
More information will be provided as locations and times are confirmed.
"AWS is aware of 34 dogs which have shown symptoms of the virus, but it should be noted that additional cases in the community are likely," Ross said. "AWS continues to monitor the number of impacted animals given the dynamic nature of the outbreak.
Ross stressed prevention is key in protecting dogs from this disease. Important measures to protect your dogs include:
- Picking up after your pet
- Keeping your animal clean
- Avoiding the use of dog parks and boarding facilities or any other place where your pet may encounter unvaccinated animals or you feel is unclean
- Avoid sharing equipment like dog bowls, toys and grooming tools
Glengarry resident Anne Rene said she had a happy reunion with her 11-month-old dog "Zeus" after he was seized by animal welfare officials on Dec. 9.
"I am very thankful for animal welfare because, my baby, he's better," Rene exclaimed. “He's back home where he belongs. He's a little different, a little skinnier, but more touchy with people around."
Rene previously told CTV News she feared she would need to cover an expensive bill while Zeus was recovering, but noted she had not received any indication since his return, "I have not received a bill as of yet. Knock on wood. But, Yeah, I have not received a bill just yet, but I'm pretty sure in the future I will. I just don't know how much it will be for."
Rene said she's pleased her neighbours were able to get some help in vaccinating their pets after bringing attention to the situation.
"It's still surreal. You know, I mean, there's still dogs getting sick. There's still dogs dying. But, you know, there are the dogs have been coming home, which is good. Right now my mind is on my son's dog. He also lives in the building. So she's at the hospital. She went in Saturday. We are just waiting to hear an update to see how she's doing,” she said.
