A Polish Hill resident just told us that her dog got sick with something called parvovirus, which is something dogs can get from direct or indirect contact with dog feces (the virus does not affect humans or other animals).  Most dogs are vaccinated again parvovirus along with their other immunizations, but her dog was not, and caught the virus on one of our streets.  Since dogs to tend to check out places where other dogs have gone, this is always a concern if you walk your dog.  This particular dog owner takes her pet around many Polish Hill streets, including Harmar, Melwood, Brereton, 28th, and to West Penn Park*.

The symptoms, which generally are seen 3 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, may include depression, fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.  Here’s a link to more information.

Of course, there are dogs all over the city, so a dog can pick up this virus anywhere.  If you walk your dog on city streets, or places where other dogs also go, please make sure that your pet has been vaccinated for parvovirus along with their other boosters and immunizations.  Again, it’s not transferable to humans or other animals, but it can make your dog pretty sick, and it’s entirely preventable.

*We should perhaps note here, as a reminder:  although it’s a nice spot and many dog owners do take their pets there, Citiparks has posted signs at West Penn park (in the playground and near the ball field entrances) that dogs are forbidden.  Owners can incur a big fine if caught.