Shelter Limiting Intakes, Quarantining in Response to Parvo Exposure

NORFOLK, VA - Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC) is limiting intakes, testing all dogs, and quarantining as needed in response to Canine Parvovirus (CPV) exposure.

On Thursday, September 22, NACC admitted a stray dog found running at large in the City. On Sunday, September 25, the dog showed symptoms of CPV and was given an antigen test, which came back positive. After consulting with shelter veterinarian, Dr. Kyra Kelly, the dog was euthanized to protect the shelter population from further spread.

Due to the known exposure and open facility set up, all dogs currently housed in the shelter will undergo titer testing to determine immunity and protection against CPV. Dogs with lower immunity will be vaccinated, quarantined and closely monitored for at least 14 days. Dogs with higher immunity test results will be categorized as unexposed and eligible for adoption.

To comply with the best infectious disease standards and outbreak management practices, NACC has implemented the following:

• Deep cleaning of the dog floor area using Rescue (Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide), a shelter disinfectant cleaner and bleach. All cleaners have been diluted to a ratio that kills CPV.
• Vaccinated all dogs (Distemper DHPP) to provide more protection.
• Categorizing all shelter dogs as infected, exposed and unexposed.

To further protect the shelter population during this 14-day period, NACC will only accept stray animals and owner surrenders on an emergency, case-by-case basis. NACC is reaching out to local partnering organizations for assistance.

NACC is closed for dog adoption viewing until Thursday, September 29.Note, Canine Parvovirus only impacts the dog adoption area. NACC continues to be open for cat and small mammal adoption.