Fort Simpson (Jan 21/05) - Several cases of parvo virus have been reported in Fort Simpson over the past week, and a few puppies have died.

Shaun Cli and family lost their pet, Caesar, a six-month-old Samoyed/ Retriever, to the dreaded illness last week.

"He got really moody and he wouldn't eat or drink. All his energy was drained," Cli said, noting that his pup had yet to be vaccinated. "He started vomiting this greenish phlegm, which eventually turned to blood. He was in a lot of pain. It was really awful."

That all occurred within a 48-hour period, according to Cli, who lives in Wild Rose Acres subdivision. The ordeal was rather traumatic for his children, he said. The dog belonging to neighbours down the street also died of parvo, he added.

Lois Martin, a nurse who has done veterinary work in the community, confirmed that the virus has been spreading in Fort Simpson. Puppies are most susceptible. Adult dogs that have been vaccinated are generally safe.

Parvo is transmitted among dogs by exposure to infected feces. Animals that recover still shed the virus in their excrement for several weeks, Martin explained.

"It's so infectious," she said.

Even dogs confined to an owner's yard can be vulnerable because sick canines can be roaming around town and leave stool anywhere, she cautioned.

Infected feces can contaminate the immediate area for up to six months. Chlorine bleach diluted with water is recommended to thoroughly clean places where the virus has been detected.

Parvo virus attacks the lining of a dog's digestive system often resulting in vomiting and severe diarrhea, which can contain blood. Dehydration usually ensues. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy and depression.

To treat an infected dog, Martin recommended a diet of rice water and Pedialyte. If the pet isn't drinking, she recommended injecting fluids by syringe. As well, she said drugs like Kaopectate, Immodium, Gravol or Pepto Bismal can be used to treat some of their symptoms.

After talking to a veterinarian, Martin said that some puppies survive the virus, but even some that receive intensive care at a vet clinic don't live.

Humans cannot contract parvo, but hand washing is a good practice after handling an ailing dog.

Martin said pet owners with emergencies can leave a message for her at 695-2906.