Northeast Kansas animal shelter enters quarantine due to 'highly contagious' virus
HOLTON (KSNT) - An animal shelter based out of Jackson County entered a quarantine this past week after a puppy was found to have a dangerous virus.
The Heart of Jackson Humane Society posted to social media on Oct. 28 notifying the community that it would be closing for two weeks. No reason was initially given as to why this action was being taken.
The humane society posted a second message on Oct. 31 regarding the quarantine situation, stating it was caused due to the detection of canine parvovirus. A dog and her eight puppies were brought in by the shelter recently, with one of the puppies testing positive for parvovirus and being quarantined away while the other animals received boosters.
"Unfortunately parvo is very, very contagious and spreads easily and we now have more, of the same litter, who have tested positive and have lost one puppy already. It is very important that we control the environment at the shelter and that's why we've decided to quarantine and close to the public. We don't want anyone bringing anything in unknowingly or spreading this horrible virus anywhere else. Our staff is working diligently cleaning and caring for these sweet puppies."
Heart of Jackson Humane Society social media post excerpt
Parvovirus spreads either through direct contact with an infected dog or through indirect contact with a contaminated object such as feces, according to the American Kennel Club. Puppies between six weeks and six months are the most susceptible to parvovirus and can lead to symptoms like:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
The Heart of Jackson Humane Society can be found 414 East Eighth Street in Holton. You can reach the organization by calling 785-364-5156 or visit its website by clicking here.
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