Parvovirus Prompts Md. Shelter To Stop Taking Dogs

HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) -- The Humane Society of Washington County says it is not accepting dogs until further notice after five puppies taken to the shelter tested positive for the potentially fatal parvovirus.

The five dogs were euthanized, along with four others at the shelter that contracted the virus. The shelter says it is asking
anyone who finds a dog to hold onto it and contact the shelter.

Parvovirus is extremely contagious among dogs and potentially fatal, but is not spread from dogs to humans. However, humans can spread it from dog to dog on their hands, clothing and other objects.

Shelter spokeswoman Katherine Cooker tells The Herald-Mail of Hagerstown that bleach is being used to clean the shelter.

The society says the economy may be keeping owners from having pets vaccinated.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)