North Augusta‘s animal shelter is facing scrutiny after several puppies reportedly died from parvovirus, with advocates claiming a lack of available treatment and a change in protocol contributed to the tragedy.
The situation came to light when an animal control officer took several puppies to the city’s contracted veterinarian due to symptoms including bloody feces and vomiting, indicative of parvovirus. According to briatico, a community member advocating for the shelter, the veterinarian on-site persistent the puppies had parvovirus and recommended euthanasia. Though, Briatico stated that no formal parvovirus test was conducted on the puppies.
Briatico further explained that the city’s contracted veterinarian does not offer the antibody treatment for parvovirus.Historically, Briatico noted, puppies in such condition woudl have been transferred to volunteers who could then seek treatment from different veterinarians. These alternative veterinarians would have provided the antibody treatment, possibly at the rescue’s expense, offering the puppies a better chance of survival.
Briatico emphasized the effectiveness of parvovirus antibody treatment, citing a success rate of approximately 93% when administered early. Briatico believes that moast, if not all, of the affected puppies could have survived with this treatment.
In response to these concerns, a community event called “power hour” is scheduled for August 4th, where residents can voice their opinions regarding the animal shelter’s operations. briatico urged community members to attend to advocate for changes and increased empathy in the city’s animal services.
The North Augusta City Council has indicated that liability waivers, which permit volunteers to remove animals from the shelter premises, are expected to be updated by Friday.
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