After an amazing weekend of fun and companionship at the Winston Speedway last week with Pumpkins and Paws going on and the beginnings of what could very well become a new fall staple in the area now in the rear view mirror until newt year, it's time to get back to the business of making sure that you and your dog are living your best lives together and that's what Jodi Jarvis-Therrian and Dog Blessed is all about here on the Muskegon Channel.
This week, it's a deeply personal episode of Dog Blessed with Jodi. Recently up in Northern Michigan there was an outbreak of Parvo Disease. Quoting from AVMA.org "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. It is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and drying, and can survive in the environment for long periods of time. Even trace amounts of feces from an infected dog may harbor the virus and infect other dogs that come into the infected environment. The virus is readily transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or via contaminated cages, shoes, or other objects." Needless to say, a breakout of a virus that's sweeping though a community and killing pets is of grave concern to everyone, especially those who are out to make sure people and pets live their best lives together.
Jodi and Olaf are here to discuss it with you and there's even an incentive for ya in this weeks episode from Tonya at Must Love Dogs to help promote the health of your pet....take a listen.
Making sure your pet is up to date on all their shots is key, but as Jodi mentioned, new strains come along all of the time and staying ahead of the virus is a moving target in any species. Like any other health scenario, the idea is that prevention, precaution and education are all key and if you think there's a chance that your pet is not feeling up to par, don't forget that Jodi has put out the new book to help you journal your pet and changes that they may be showing in their day to day. It's a wonderful addition to your skills as a pet parent and will help you and your vet or trainer understand the communication your pet is giving you.
