Hospital chain reports alarming rise in parvovirus cases during pandemic

BluePearl Pet Hospital reported an alarming rise in canine parvovirus cases and hospitalizations during the pandemic. This could be due in part to pets missing their vaccinations during lockdowns.

The specialty and emergency hospital chain has about 90 locations throughout the country, and data analysis found a more than 70% increase in parvovirus cases relative to emergency room cases in 2020 compared to the same time periods in the last five years.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease that attacks the dog’s gastrointestinal tract. While it most commonly affects puppies, it can be dangerous for any unvaccinated or partially vaccinated dog, according to BluePearl. It can be spread between dogs or from infected environments and people.

Officials think the rise in cases could be due to several factors: Pet adoptions increased during the pandemic, and it’s possible new dogs were adopted without having received vaccinations. Additionally, stay-at-home orders resulted in people spending more time outdoors with their pets, which could increase the risk of infection.

Lockdowns may have led to pets missing vaccinations, also increasing their risk. And owners facing job loss and financial hardship may be unable to seek adequate care.