Ontario’s Animal Welfare Services (AWS) is urging dog owners in Windsor to take immediate precautions following a viral outbreak of parvovirus that has already claimed the lives of 14 dogs. The outbreak began in downtown Windsor and has spread to surrounding areas, leaving veterinary professionals on high alert.

As of recent reports, 21 additional dogs are either sick or at risk of infection. AWS has isolated and is currently treating the surviving dogs in a secure location. Although the exact number of infected animals remains unclear, the severity of the outbreak has prompted an official warning for pet owners to consult with their veterinarians immediately.

As per The Canadian Press, Chief Animal Welfare Inspector Melanie Milczynski emphasized the importance of early intervention, noting, “The parvovirus can progress very quickly, so if you feel like your animal has been affected or appears unwell, reach out to your family vet as soon as possible to get the treatment that’s required because the likelihood of success is greater the earlier that it’s detected.”

At a recent vaccination clinic aimed at curbing the spread of the virus, 65 dogs were vaccinated. Additional vaccination events are being planned in collaboration with the Windsor-Essex Humane Society and the Hamilton-Burlington Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.