CONRAD DIAS
Ranchi, Feb 25: The cases of Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) in dogs have been increasing rapidly in Ranchi and its neighboring regions such as Ramgarh, Patratu and Mccluskiegunj. On a daily basis, around 5 to 10 affected dogs are treated at the Government Pet Clinic in Ranchi. The cases have been surging since January.
According to Dr. Santosh Rawani, a veterinarian at Government Pet Clinic, Ranchi, the dogs, either pet or stray, which show any symptoms of CPV or CDV should be immediately taken to the nearby government veterinary hospital. “The symptoms of CPV are vomiting, traces of blood in loose motion, low immunity, weakness and loss of diet whereas dogs that are affected with CDV show muscle twitching, fits, discharge of excess saliva and paralysis. If a puppy is affected, then it becomes very difficult to save it as compared to an adult dog,” he added.
Apart from pet dogs, a number of unvaccinated stray dogs have also succumbed to these contagious viruses in the last one month as they have low body immunity.
Steven Gomes, a resident of Ranchi and a dog parent, has three German Shepherds which are currently suffering from CDV. “My pets had the symptoms a week back and when I took them to the Veterinary clinic, I was informed that they have been affected by the virus. Their condition is quite fragile at the moment and it will take some time for them to recover.”
Animal Welfare Trust, an animal shelter situated in Angara, Ranchi has suggested that the government should set up proper isolation centers in the city. “Since both CPV and CDV are highly contagious, it would be better that the government set up a few isolation centers in the city as it will provide proper medical facilities and would also reduce the chances of other dogs being affected,” said one of the members of Animal Welfare Trust.
“To avoid such a situation, dog parents should primarily focus on improving the immunity of their pets by giving them a healthy diet, proper medication, timely vaccination and deworming,” the member added.
