LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – It is being called a game changer with potential to save the lives of countless dogs. A new, first-of-its-kind treatment for a deadly canine virus has now hit the market. The Animal Foundation immediately ordered it and says it’s already saved several of their dogs.
Lotus is a puppy now getting a second chance at life. When Lotus arrived at the Animal Foundation, she was severely sick, and testing confirmed it was parvo.
“Canine parvovirus is a very contagious, very deadly disease… Unfortunately, until now there has been no targeted treatment for it,” explained Casey Miller, Animal Foundation Chief Veterinarian.
The virus has a 91% mortality rate left untreated, but even with treatment which in the past could only manage the symptoms and not the virus itself, the odds haven’t been great.
“Traditionally treating parvo has been an expensive endeavor, usually involves hospitalization, injectable medications and it can be in the thousands of dollars… Sometimes our patients will pass and so this is such a huge turning point for us in our field,” Miller contended.
Lotus is one of the first dogs at the Animal Foundation to receive a USDA conditionally approved treatment.
“It is called Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) and it basically binds to the virus cells to nullify them,” Miller reported. The Animal Foundation takes in a dog with parvo on average every three days and CPMA is already drastically improving survival rates.
“Normally, we would see or hope to see improvement over several days of clinical signs and we are seeing that within 24-48 hours,” Miller revealed. The treatment is now available at other shelters and vet’s offices across the valley. It starts at $220 and depends on the size of the dog. For Lotus, it has been a life saver.
“This medication is expensive… but the benefit that we are seeing from it is worth it,” Miller argued.
Parvo remains a major problem throughout the Vegas Valley though there is a vaccination to prevent it. Puppies can get the vaccine starting at 6-8 weeks old. Adult dogs also should get parvo vaccinations. Ask your vet for a recommended schedule
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