KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A Kalamazoo-based event for dog lovers has been canceled due to a viral outbreak.
The “Bark in the Park” event was going to be held this Thursday, August 26 at Fairmount Dog Park.
The event would have included activities such as a puppy parade for a chance to win prizes, according to the City of Kalamazoo. It would have been an event hosted by the city and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Southwest Michigan (SPCA).
However, the SPCA announced Wednesday that the event has been canceled due to an outbreak of canine parvovirus.
“After speaking with animal control and getting information on the outbreak, we cannot guarantee the safety of our dogs and the communities pets,” officials said. “We can’t with good conscience have an event that puts our loved ones at risk.”
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) describes the virus as follows:
“Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies younger than four months old are the most at risk. Dogs that are ill from canine parvovirus infection are often said to have ‘parvo.’
The virus affects dogs’ gastrointestinal tracts and is spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated feces (stool), environments, or people. The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs.”
Although the event is canceled, the City of Kalamazoo has not been advised to close Fairmount Park. It remains open at the owner’s discretion. The city also says that dogs experiencing parvovirus symptoms, or that have been exposed to it, should stay home.
A full list of rules for the park are available at https://www.kzooparks.org/fairmount.
Related –
On Wednesday, WWMT reported that the planned Barks and Brews Festival at Homer Stryker Field will no longer allow dogs at the event in light of this news.
More on that story can be found here.
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