03/24/2026
⚠️DOGS AT RISK, COMMUNITY UPDATE – PLEASE READ⚠️
We are currently seeing a significant increase in parvovirus cases throughout the Mid-Coast and Augusta area, and we’ve also been made aware of possible contamination at Quarry Run Dog Park in Portland. Because of this, we want to share some important reminders to help keep your dogs safe.
🔴WHAT IS PARVOVIRUS?
Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus, especially in puppies under the age of one or dogs that are not fully vaccinated.
It spreads through infected stool and can survive in the environment (soil, surfaces, etc.) for up to 7 years. This means dogs can be exposed even without direct contact with a sick dog.
Common signs include:
- Vomiting (often severe, sometimes with blood)
- Diarrhea (often severe, sometimes with blood)
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
💉PREVENTION – THIS IS THE BIG ONE
Vaccination is the most effective protection.
Puppies need a series of distemper/parvo vaccines (usually 3 rounds, 2-3 weeks apart) to be fully protected. Many owners don’t realize that one or two vaccines is not enough.
Until that full series is complete:
Keep puppies at home or in controlled, low-risk environments
Avoid dog parks, pet stores, daycare, groomers, and other high-traffic areas
Be cautious about where your puppy is walking (shared outdoor spaces can be a risk)
🐾IF YOUR PUPPY IS SICK
If your puppy (especially under one year old) is having vomiting or diarrhea:
1. Call your vet first
2. When you arrive, keep your puppy *in the car* and notify staff
This helps protect other patients in the building in case your puppy is contagious.
💊TREATMENT
Parvovirus requires early and aggressive care. Most dogs need hospitalization with minimum of:
- IV fluids
- Medications for nausea and infection
- Close monitoring
Dogs may require hospitalization for 7 days or longer. Survival rates can be good (around 75–80%) with prompt, aggressive care, but delays can be fatal. Treatment should be tailored to each dog's symptoms and needs.
Treatment for parvo can be quite expensive due to the intensive levels of hospitalization and staff care required with costs in the thousands.
BOTTOM LINE
Make sure your puppy completes the full vaccine series
Keep them out of high-risk areas until fully vaccinated
Take symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea seriously
If you have questions about your puppy’s vaccine schedule or risk, please contact your primary veterinarian.
If you are unable to get an appointment with your vet to keep up with the vaccine schedule, please reach out to other community resources such as shelters and pet stores for local vaccine clinic times and locations.
