Animal experts offer aid to parvovirus outbreak in dogs at Kalamazoo homeless camp

KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — An outbreak of parvovirus in dogs at a homeless camp along the bank of the Kalamazoo River continues to be investigated.

Kalamazoo County Animal Services says they have been talking with residents at the camp near downtown Kalamazoo and that they observed up to 20 dogs at the site, all of which appeared healthy and active. But the officers were informed that three dogs had died. There had been reports that deceased dogs had been thrown into the river, but officials say those reports are unsubstantiated.

Residents at the camp have been told to get in touch with Animal Services if any of the remaining dogs started to appear sick or die. Though nothing can be done to rid the area of the virus, the SPCA is going to the encampment today to conduct tests on dogs for Parvo and to give vaccination shots. The Kalamazoo Humane Society will also make return trips for booster shots required for the first-time vaccinations.