Stafford Animal Shelter Suspends Dog Adoptions Due To Parvovirus

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — The Stafford County Animal Shelter is temporarily halting dog adoptions and not accepting surrenders due to concerns about a potential Parvovirus update. This week, the shelter said it would suspend all viewings and adoptions until at least Dec. 21.

Parvovirus can infect cats and dogs, though it's typically seen in canines, the American Veterinary Medical Association says on its website. The virus affects white blood cells and the gastrointestinal tract. It can also damage the heart muscle of younger dogs, the experts said.

"Earlier this week a dog was surrendered to the shelter, much like any other day," Lauren Hopkins, the manager of the animal shelter, told Patch. "Shortly after the dog arrived it began displaying symptoms of canine parvovirus. Upon becoming symptomatic, the dog was tested and unfortunately that test was positive."

The positive test prompted a 14-day adoption floor enclosure, the animal shelter wrote on Facebook.

Parvovirus can be highly contagious among dogs, especially those who are in close proximity. The virus can spread through direct contact with an infected dog, contact with an infected dog's feces, or contact with contaminated surface.

• Related: Mystery Of Illness That May Be Sickening VA Dogs Unlocked By New Study

Even small amounts of feces from a sick dog can spread the infection, the AVMA said. Experts recommend dogs get vaccinated against the virus and encourage owners to practice good pet hygiene.

"We are happy to report that at this time, no dogs in our care are seriously ill. Thanks to our dedicated staff and the stringent procedures we have in place, we believe this is a manageable situation," Hopkins told Patch. "We are working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of our furry friends, as always."

In a Friday update, the Stafford County Animal Shelter said thanked the public for their support.

"We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and kind messages during this time," the shelter said in a message to the community. "Your love means the world to us! As of now, all our furry friends are doing well, and we don't have any overly serious concerns. Your positive vibes are making a difference!"

Shelter officials noted that many supporters have asked what they can donate to assist during this difficult time. The shelter's list of most-needed items includes dog food, cat scratchers, pill pockets, laundry detergent, and dog toys for aggressive chewers.

"In addition to support and love from our community, it’s awe-inspiring for me personally to see the compassion and empathy displayed by our staff here at the shelter. Working in animal welfare is a demanding and emotionally charged profession," Hopkins said. "The dedication of every team member for every animal that comes through our doors on a daily basis is nothing short of inspiring and this place is what it is because of all of them. In moments like these at the shelter, that compassion often comes at a personal cost but that doesn’t stop everyone here from showing up every day for these deserving animals."

More information about how to donate to the shelter is available online.

Hopkins also thanked Dr. Laura Chretien of Loving Touch Animal Hospital for their assistance.

"Your continued support warms our hearts. We're in this together, and with your help, we can ensure the well-being of our beloved shelter residents," shelter staff members said on Facebook. "Thank you again for being the compassionate community that makes a difference!"