Recently, islanders have reported the discovery of dead dogs around San Pedro Town. Many people suspected that the dogs had been poisoned. However, the local Saga Humane Society staff believes that the cause is a pair of deadly viruses; Canine parvovirus (Parvo) and Distemper. To prevent your puppy/adult dog from being infected, pet owners are encouraged to get them vaccinated as early as possible. Pet owners can visit SAGA or call them at 226-3266 to schedule an appointment.

Once infected with Parvo, the disease calls for advanced medical treatment. A simple pill prescription cannot cure Canine parvovirus, and untreated cases carry a mortality rate of 91%. Parvo is considered very contagious, endangering the lives of other pets. It can be transmitted by any person, animal, or object that contacts an infected dog's feces. It is common for an unvaccinated dog to contract parvovirus from the streets, especially in urban areas with many strays. Puppies less than four months and unvaccinated dogs are the most at risk.

Canine Distemper virus is another aggressive disease that attacks puppies and dogs' respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. The ill pet can be seen with discharges from the eyes and the nasal cavity. Other symptoms include fever, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, seizures, and partial or complete paralysis. It is an airborne disease, and infected pregnant dogs can pass the virus to puppies.

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